HSV Testing

Hello Dr.,

I had protected sex with a girl of unknown status (high risk of STD though)back in Febuary. I tested negative for everything and my doctor stating I'm fine. Here are my questions.

1) I tested negative for both HSV 1 & 2 at 4 months and 7 months using the Focus HerpeSelect Test. Do I need to retest at some point?

2) How reliable is the test?

3) How effective are condoms with HSV?

Thank you for your time!

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

You are home free; no need for re-testing.  A negative Focus test result is almost 100% reliable, especially when separate tests gave the same result.  Condoms help prevent HSV transmission, but are not 100% effective; HSV doesn't pass through intact latex, but condoms don't protect against skin-to-skin contact above the condom's coverage.

Good luck--   HHH, MD