What would you do?

[Harry from Hogwarts]

If you have sores in the genitals, would you test for both HSV-1 and HSV-2?

[getSTDtested Administrator]

It wouldn't be a bad idea to test for both HSV-1 and HSV-2 if you have sores in the genitals. Though it is more common for genital herpes to be caused by HSV-2, it is possible to transfer HSV-1 to the genitals during oral sex. That said, HSV-2 would definitely be more likely to cause noticeable symptoms such as sores, whereas HSV-1 is less likely to cause outbreaks, especially genitally. If you were going to choose one test, go with HSV-2, but testing for both is a good idea just so you know your status of both. I hope that helps, please let me know if you have any more questions.

[Truth to Power]

I agree that of the two tests, HSV-2 is far more important here than HSV-1. HSV-2 is virtually always indicative of genital infection. If you can get to a clinic while sores are present and before they start to heal, a culture test can be done. You've got to have that done with symptoms though, and it's best with the first outbreak. Other than that, HSV-2 blood testing is probably the way to go.