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Screening for Genital Herpes

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Condition InDepth

Screening for Genital Herpes

Screening Guidelines

The purpose of screening is early diagnosis and treatment. Tests are given to people who do not have symptoms, but who may be at risk.

There aren’t any screening guidelines or tests for genital herpes.

Women who are pregnant and near labor will be asked about their history. They will also be checked for any herpes sores. A test may be done to find out if the virus is there. This can help avoid spreading the virus to the baby.

Screening Guidelines

The purpose of screening is early diagnosis and treatment. Tests are given to people who do not have symptoms, but who may be at risk.

There aren’t any screening guidelines or tests for genital herpes.

Women who are pregnant and near labor will be asked about their history. They will also be checked for any herpes sores. A test may be done to find out if the virus is there. This can help avoid spreading the virus to the baby.

References

  • 2015 Sexually transmitted diseases treatment guidelines. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/std/tg2015/default.htm. Updated January 25, 2017. Accessed August 10, 2018.
  • Gardella C, Huang ML, Wald A, et al. Rapid polymerase chain reaction assay to detect herpes simplex virus in the genital tract of women in labor. Obstet Gynecol. 2010;115(6):1209-1216.
  • Genital herpes. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T114875/Genital-herpes . Updated February 19, 2018. Accessed August 10, 2018.
  • Genital herpes—CDC fact sheet (detailed). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/std/herpes/stdfact-herpes-detailed.htm. Updated February 9, 2017. Accessed August 10, 2018.

Contributors

  • Beverly Siegal, MD, FACOG
Last Updated:
2018-05-01

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This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.