Herpes Antibody Test

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Type of Herpes Test

Qualitative (i.e. the result will be positive or negative and will not provide and index value)

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Window Period

N/A

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Samples required

Blood

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Time for test results

Within 60 minutes

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Locations

London & Birmingham

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Fees

£150. Learn more.

Journey Overview

Herpes Antibody (Blood) Test - Clarewell Clinics

#1 Pre Appointment Questionnaire

In order to be most prepared and leave plenty of time for questions & discussions, we will ask you to fill out a simple questionnaire.

#2 Consultation

We will begin by assessing your medical & sexual history, any symptoms you may be experiencing and discuss any questions you may have.

#3 Sample collection

If it is still appropriate to proceed with the Herpes Antibody test (and you would like to), we will require a blood sample.

#3 Management

Once you have received your results, we will discuss the next steps with you.

Patient Feedback

    
 
 
       Posted on Google  
    C  
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I've been trying to get my coil replaced since May on the NHS, but they couldn't do it as my threads have been cut too short. Waiting lists for NHS gynae appointment are insane (~1 year) so after some deliberating I decided to go private. I chose Clarewell Clinics as they had great reviews and also compared to other clinics, were a lot more reasonably priced.

I booked an ultrasound guided coil removal in hopes that Dr. Elena would be able to do it without needing to go down a more invasive route. Thankfully, she did it with ease and also replaced it with a Mirena coil (on the NHS they had told me my uterus was too small so had to go with Kyleena).

It was such a more pleasant experience than when I did it on the NHS. Dr. Elena and Yemi kept me comfortable and eased my anxiety the whole way through the process. The pain relief options were also better- air and gas was a lifesaver! I could still feel the pain but it was milder and so much more bareable than the insertion I had 5 years ago. It was over quickly and I was sent away with a heat pack to ease the cramping afterwards.

Thank you so much Dr Elena, Yemi and also Ryaan for being a friendly face in the reception.

I would thoroughly recommend Clarewell Clinics :)
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    K S 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a mirena replacement with Elena, supported by Ryan.
I have previously had bad experiences, but the approach here and the pain management meant if I had to come back next week for another one, I’d do it.
I arrived feeling sick and shaking but Ryan put me at ease, Elena did a fantastic and quick job and the gas and air made a huge difference, I barely felt anything.  The whole team were friendly and welcoming and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them.  I had an injection and she didn’t wait for pain to come to manage it, it was managed upfront.  I’m so incredibly grateful, thank you.  Ryan and Elena are a fantastic team
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    P R 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mr Aaron Williams saw us while we were visiting London from the US and he treated us well, with compassion and professionalism. Seeing him helped put us at ease for the rest of our trip, which ended up being great.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    E R 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Incredible care and treatment. Can't thank Dr Jayadeva and his team enough who put me at great ease and looked after me. Wonderful clinic will be recommending.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    A L 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a copper coil removal yesterday with Dr Praveen Jayadeva. If you are at all nervous about an iud fitting or removal, I couldn't recommend this clinic enough. I had a very painful experience at a different clinic that made me really scared about the removal procedure. They really take the time to talk you through what's going to happen and what type of pain relief options you have. They were so friendly and comforting (both the doctor and the amazing assistant) and procedure was so quick. They even offer you tea and biscuits afterwards. Really fantastic and professional clinic!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    B G 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a coil done here. It was an amazing experience, really worth the money paid. The doctor took the time to go through the process and all the options in detail. I felt prepared and well cared for. I had numbing gel and spray and also gas and air. The actual coil fitting was less then 5 minutes. I felt a little discomfort, but the gas and air managed this very well. The team were all very supportive and caring.
My coil lasts for 5 years, I'm very happy with my experience. Could not recommend enough.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    D  
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Malu was able to help me fully understand and put into context my concerns surrounding HPV, which at times can feel like a confusing subject. His ability to listen and understand my concerns with empathy and without judgement was very helpful. I am grateful for the expertise and care given by Dr. Malu and the staff at his clinic. The team provides a very professional and comfortable experience.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    A R 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fantastic and caring team from booking process, reception, appointment and billing. Went for a coil removal. They had ultrasound and gas for pain management (when I checked it seemed they were the only clinic that offered this!!). 100% recommend. Especially if you’re getting a coil, want to make sure you do it with a top professional team. I inserted it elsewhere and it was a barbaric procedure for me, insanely painful and just awful. So save yourself unnecessary trauma/pain
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    A  
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had such a great experience at Clarewell Clinic. I was extremely nervous about the pain before my copper IUD fitting, but Dr Praveen Jayadeva explained everything clearly throughout the appointment and made me feel completely comfortable. I was given pain relief and the fitting was honestly so much easier than I expected — I barely felt any pain at all. Yasmin was also incredibly lovely and reassuring throughout. I’m genuinely so happy I chose Clarewell and would definitely recommend them. 10/10.

Eligibility



Best For

Checking herpes status without active symptoms.



Pregnancy/Breastfeeding

Safe for use during pregnancy.

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Menstruation

Safe to test during menstruation.



Prior/Repeat Use

Investigating past or recent exposure.

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Do NOT use if

Diagnosing active blisters (use PCR).

Avoid/Discuss if

Recent glandular fever or autoimmune conditions.

Fees

Testing

Herpes DNA PCR Test - £150 (results in 4 working days)

Herpes Antibody Test - £150 (results in 60 minutes)

We offer a quantitive Herpes Antibody Test (with index values). However, this costs £350 and takes 2-3 weeks for results.

Treatment

Herpes Suppressive Therapy (existing patients) - £60 (3 month supply)

Herpes Suppressive Therapy (new patients) - £120 (3 month supply)

Herpes Outbreak Treatment - £30

Consultation

Included in test. £60 if no tests taken.

Payment Options

Self Pay - By Cash/Card), but not American Express
Health insurance
Klarna – a payment plan to split the cost over 4 payments.

FAQs

Show All Answers

What is a Herpes antibody test?

The first time you come in contact with the Herpes virus, the body will create an antibody in response to the infection. The antibody is an attempt by your immune system to protect yourself from this infection.

As such, the presence of an antibody tells you that you have been in contact with the Herpes virus.

Exposure to Type 1 Herpes virus will produce antibodies to Type 1 herpes. Likewise, exposure to Type 2 Herpes virus will produce antibodies against Type 2 herpes.

What types of Herpes antibodies can this test for?

There are 2 types of antibodies the body develops after getting infected with herpes virus:

IgM (Immunoglobulin M): This is the body's immediate response to the infection. It appears 7-10 days after the infection and lasts for a couple of weeks before disappearing from the blood. If IgM is detected, this indicates a recent exposure to herpes virus for the very first time in the last few weeks.
IgG (Immunoglobulin G): This begins to appear about 2 weeks after exposure to the infection and remains in the body for a long time. If IgG is detected, this indicates an exposure to herpes more than 6-12 weeks ago. This antibody passes through the placenta of a pregnant woman and protects the baby from herpes at the time of birth.

There is often a short time overlap between declining levels of IgM and increasing levels of IgG when both types of antibodies are simultaneously detectable.

How is this test different from a Herpes PCR test?

The herpes antibody test looks for any infection of the Herpes virus within the last 6 months or in the past through the detection of antibodies, while the herpes PCR test looks for any present infection of the Herpes virus.

When should I get tested?

There is no set window period to have the herpes antibody test. However, it is good to keep in mind that the incubation period for the Herpes virus is typically short, ranging from 2 to 12 days after exposure.

You should get tested if you want to find out your herpes status.

How accurate is the Herpes antibody test?

The tests we use are CE and IVD marked, with an accuracy of approx 95%.

False-negative results: Can occur if the antibody level is too low or when antibodies have not yet developed.
False-positive results: May occur in specimens from patients with infectious mononucleosis and certain auto-immune conditions.

Is my Herpes antibody test confidential?

Yes. Everything you share with us is confidential and will not be shared with the NHS, your GP or anyone else unless you wish for us to do so.

How can I prepare for my Herpes antibody test?

There are no special preparations required for the herpes antibody test.

How will I receive my Herpes antibody test results?

You can receive your herpes antibody results by either text or email.

How long will my Herpes antibody test result take?

You will receive your herpes antibody test results within 30 minutes after leaving your appointment.

What do my Herpes antibody test results mean?

Your results are broken down by the type of antibody detected (IgM or IgG) and whether the result is Positive or Negative.

Antibody Type	Positive Result	Negative Result
IgM	You have recently been exposed to the Herpes virus. Can be detected 9-10 days after exposure and last for 7-14 days, though may remain detectable for up to 6 weeks. Often associated with a primary infection but may be detectable during recurrence of the disease.	You have not been exposed to the Herpes virus in the last 6 weeks.
IgG	You have been exposed to the Herpes virus in the past. Can be detected 21-28 days after exposure and remain detectable for the rest of life.	You have not been exposed to the Herpes virus in the past.

Should I tell my partner if I test positive for Herpes antibodies?

It is not required by law to disclose this information to your sexual partners.

Can I get a certificate of my Herpes antibody test results?

Yes. Along with a text or email of your Herpes Antibody test results, we can email a certificate for official purposes.

Next Steps



In Clinic

Same day test results +/- medications available for most infections.

With Consultation

Without Consultation

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Online

Start, continue or finish your care online.

Online Consultation

Suppressive Therapy (New Patient)

Suppressive Therapy (Repeat Patient)

Not sure what you need? Contact us here.

Page last reviewed by Mrs. Magdalena Nowacka on 1 November 2023 for general guidance only. It is not intended to replace the advice of your clinician.