Herpes Simplex (HSV) 1 & 2 (PCR) (Oral or Genital)
Professional, confidential testing for Herpes Simplex (HSV) 1 & 2 (PCR) (Oral or Genital). Book your appointment at our South Kensington clinic for fast, accurate results.
Book your test at our South Kensington clinic.
Price
£106
All-inclusive price
- Results within 5 days"
- Confidential service
- No GP referral needed
- Professional clinical environment
- Results via secure portal
- Nurse-led expert care
South Kensington Clinic
Herpes Testing
Herpes is extremely common and manageable. Testing helps you understand your status.
- Very common – many people don't know they have it
- Knowledge empowers better health decisions
- Knowing your status helps protect partners
- Can be managed effectively long-term
- Reduces anxiety and uncertainty
100% Confidential
Your privacy is protected
Fast Results
Results within 5 days"
Expert Care
Professional clinical team
Accurate Testing
Lab-certified results
About the Herpes Simplex (HSV) 1 & 2 (PCR) (Oral or Genital)
The Herpes Simplex (HSV) 1 & 2 (PCR) (Oral or Genital) is a confidential sexual health test offered at South Kensington Medical and Dental, located at 20 Old Brompton Road, SW7 3DL — a two-minute walk from South Kensington tube station. A swab sample is collected by a registered nurse during an appointment lasting approximately 20 minutes. Results are typically available within 5 days" and are sent securely via email.
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) exists as two types: HSV-1, which is traditionally associated with oral herpes, and HSV-2, which is more commonly associated with genital herpes, although either type can infect either location. The World Health Organisation estimates that approximately 3.7 billion people under 50 globally have HSV-1 infection. Many individuals with herpes are unaware of their status because the infection can be asymptomatic or produce mild symptoms that are not recognised. Blood tests detect IgG and IgM antibodies to HSV, while PCR swab testing can identify active viral shedding from lesions. Type-specific testing can distinguish between HSV-1 and HSV-2.
South Kensington Medical and Dental is a two-minute walk from South Kensington Underground station on the Piccadilly, District, and Circle lines. The clinic is open Monday to Thursday from 9am, with extended hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays until 8pm, Fridays from 8am to 5pm, and weekends from 10am to 4pm. All samples are analysed by an accredited laboratory, and your visit is entirely confidential.
Who May Consider This Test
The Herpes Simplex (HSV) 1 & 2 (PCR) (Oral or Genital) may be relevant for a range of individuals. The following are common reasons people choose to have this test:
- Individuals who have experienced genital blisters or sores
- Those whose partner has disclosed a herpes diagnosis
- People with recurrent symptoms of genital irritation or tingling
- Individuals who wish to know their HSV-1 and HSV-2 status
- Those seeking a baseline measurement before a new relationship
How to Prepare
No specific preparation required for swab tests
Swab samples are collected quickly during your appointment by a registered nurse. The process is straightforward and generally takes only a few seconds.
Consider the testing window period
Each test has a recommended minimum time from potential exposure for accurate results. If you are unsure whether enough time has passed, our clinical team can advise you at your appointment.
Continue any current medications
Unless advised otherwise by your prescribing doctor, continue taking your regular medications as normal before the test.
Bring your confirmation details
Arrive at our South Kensington clinic, 20 Old Brompton Road, SW7 3DL with your booking confirmation. We are a two-minute walk from South Kensington tube. The appointment takes approximately 20 minutes.
Pricing
Payment is collected at the clinic. No additional fees apply for this test.
Sample Information
Your Results
If any results indicate a positive finding, we recommend discussing them with your GP or a qualified sexual health clinician for appropriate next steps.
How It Works
Book Online
Choose a convenient date and time
Visit Clinic
Quick and discreet appointment
Sample Collection
Professional, comfortable process
Get Results
Results within 5 days"
Frequently Asked Questions
The appointment takes approximately 20 minutes. This includes registration, sample collection, and any questions you may have.
You May Also Be Interested In
Other sexual health tests you may want to consider alongside the Herpes Simplex (HSV) 1 & 2 (PCR) (Oral or Genital)
What Our Patients Say
Real feedback from our patients at South Kensington Medical & Dental.
Meet Our Medical Team
Our experienced medical team is fully qualified and registered with the GMC and NMC, delivering safe, high-quality care in line with the highest professional standards.
Because our patients deserve nothing less.
Registered. Regulated. Trusted.
South Kensington Medical & Dental is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and our clinicians are registered with the relevant UK regulatory bodies, including the GDC and GMC. Our dentists, dental nurses and medical professionals deliver care that meets the highest clinical, safety and ethical standards, because our patients deserve nothing less.
