HSV-2 positive but it seems so unlikely.

[Yahyahboo]

I recently got a comprehensive STD screen that included HSV 1 and 2 testing that I now deeply regret. I tested normal for HSV-1 but abnormal for HSV-2 (index 1.25). The supplemental test was not performed “due to lack of reagents”. I believe my actual risk of exposure to HSV-2 to be extremely low, as I have had penetrative sex with very few partners (4) and almost always with a condom unless we were in a years long relationship. Around 2009 I also tested positive for herpes, but that test didn’t distinguish between HSV 1 or 2. My doctor at the time said it was almost certainly HSV 1 and left it at that. So it seems from these two tests would indicate that if I am indeed positive for HSV-2 I have had it since 2009. But at that time my only sexual partners were with a longtime girlfriend (we were both virgins when we started having sex) and one very brief and minimal encounter that caused me to get that test back then.
So I’m not sure what I should do now. I find it hard to believe I got HSV-2 before 2009 or even after. I have never had any symptoms or reasons to suspect I have HSV-2, but now any bump or irregularities anywhere adjacent to my genitals makes me paranoid. I have read that some people might test positive for HSV-2 antibodies without having it and that seems much more likely in my case than not. But if that is the case then it seems that getting retested or getting the supplemental test would be moot since I might test positive no matter what. I would like to put this behind me, but am at a loss for how to do that.

[Terri Warren]

There is an 85% chance that your value on the HSV 2 is a false positive.You need a herpes western blot confirmatory test. It is the gold standard for HSV antibody testing. it is done only at the University of Washington. You can call them to get a kit for the test at 206-685-6066. You can work with your own health care provider to do this or with me. If you want to work with me, you can schedule an evisit on this website. Do NOT accept this as reality, please!

Terri

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