When to WB?

[starboy99]

Hi Terri,

My partner and I have recently decided to practice non-monogamy. After deciding to get tested, I now have two IgG tests that are positive for HSV2 (2.252, 5.33). I’ve never experienced symptoms of HSV.

Here’s my timeline:

2009-2014
Mixed sexual history, intercourse with and without condoms. No testing, no symptoms.

2/2014 – 2/2023
Monogamous with partner, no condoms.

2/10/23
Couple 1
Oral and hands

2/24/23
Couple 1
Oral, hands, intercourse with condom

2/25/23, 2/27/23
Couple 2
Oral, hands

3/3/23
MyLabBox HSV 1+2 home kit test (dried blood samples on blotter paper)
HSV1 negative
HSV2 2.252, IgG ELISA
Partner tests negative for both

3/8/23
Female 1
Oral, hands

3/9/23
Male 1
Oral, hands

3/9
LabCorp 163033 IgG Type Spec
HSV1 negative
HSV2 5.33

I’m considering getting the Western Blot, but am unsure of when to do so. I don’t know if this infection is old or new. Our sex lives are unlikely to slow down any time soon. Currently its been 4 weeks since our first encounter with other individuals, and our sex lives are unlikely to slow down. Would you advise waiting until 12 weeks to start the WB?

[Terri Warren]

I believe that we spoke on a telehealth visit this week. Is that correct? I do think that you need to obtain a western blot for greater clarity. If I recall correctly one of these tests was done through an at-home service which we really can’t fully trust unfortunately and one was done with a regular lab, as I recall. I would have to go back and look at my records but I think that we decided to order a western Blot.

Terri

[Author]

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