Rectal herpes swab test in Chiswick

What the test measures

Herpes simplex virus can affect the skin around the anus and the lining of the back passage. It is usually passed on during anal sex or rimming, and can also spread from a nearby genital infection. Either type of the virus can be responsible. Symptoms may include painful blisters or ulcers, itching, discharge and pain when opening your bowels, although some people notice very little.

The swab collects material from the affected area so the laboratory can look for the virus directly. This matters because several conditions can look alike in this area, including anal fissures, haemorrhoids and other infections such as syphilis, and each needs different care.

The price includes the swab taken at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of your result and a GP feedback report on request. The appointment takes place in a private room, and we treat every visit confidentially and without judgement.

Who it is for

• You have painful sores, blisters or ulcers around your anus.
• You have anal pain, itching or discharge after anal sex.
• Your partner has been diagnosed with herpes and you have symptoms in this area.
• You have had similar episodes before and want to confirm the cause.
• You are having a wider sexual health check and have symptoms that need a rectal sample.

Understanding your result

A positive result shows herpes simplex virus was present in the sample, which helps your practitioner and GP decide on antiviral treatment and advice about passing it on. A negative result means the virus was not found, though it may be missed if a sore was healing or the sample came from an area with little virus. Because symptoms here overlap with other infections, your practitioner may suggest syphilis or other STI testing as well. Your result is a basis for discussion, not a diagnosis.

Ongoing rectal bleeding, a lasting change in bowel habit or pain that does not settle should be checked by your GP, whatever the swab shows.

Preparing for your test

No fasting is needed. Try to book while sores are fresh rather than healing, and on the day avoid anal douching, enemas and creams applied to the area where possible. Your practitioner will explain whether you take the swab yourself in private or whether they take it, and we confirm any preparation when you book.

Our STI tests include rectal and blood options for chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis and HIV, which you can add to the same appointment. There is also a full list of every blood test and price in Chiswick.

Questions

How much is a rectal herpes swab in Chiswick?

The Herpes Swab (rectal) costs £69 at our Chiswick clinic. This includes the swab, analysis at an accredited laboratory, a confidential practitioner review and a GP feedback report on request.

Can I take the swab myself?

Many people prefer to, and your practitioner will explain how to do it comfortably and correctly. If you would rather a practitioner took it, just say so when you arrive.

Could my symptoms be something other than herpes?

Yes. Fissures, haemorrhoids, skin conditions and other infections, including syphilis, can cause similar symptoms. That is why a swab is useful, and why your practitioner may recommend further tests.

Can herpes in this area be treated?

There is no cure, but antiviral medicine prescribed by a GP or sexual health clinic can shorten an outbreak and ease symptoms. It tends to work best when started early.