Genital herpes is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections among men worldwide — and also one of the most misunderstood. Many men who carry herpes have no symptoms, while others experience occasional outbreaks that cause stress, pain, or embarrassment.
Accurate herpes testing gives clarity, peace of mind, and proper treatment options. Bangkok provides safe, discreet, medical-grade herpes testing with fast results and complete privacy.
This guide explains when to test, which test to choose, symptoms, outbreak management, and what results really mean.
What Is Herpes (HSV)?
Herpes is caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus, primarily:
HSV-1: commonly oral, but can infect the genitals
HSV-2: primarily genital
Both types can be sexually transmitted.
Once infected, the virus stays in the body for life — but symptoms can be fully controlled with medication.
How Herpes Is Transmitted
Herpes spreads through:
Oral sex (cold sores → genital infection)
Vaginal or anal sex
Skin-to-skin contact with an infected area
Asymptomatic viral shedding (no visible sores)
Condoms reduce but do not completely eliminate risk.
Symptoms of Genital Herpes in Men
Typical symptoms:
Red bumps around penis or groin
Blister-like lesions
Painful ulcers
Itching or burning
Tingling before outbreak
Pain during urination
Systemic symptoms during first outbreak:
Fever
Fatigue
Swollen lymph nodes
But MOST men have no symptoms at all.
Many discover the infection only through testing.
Who Should Get Herpes Testing?
Men should test if they:
Have bumps, sores, or blisters
Have a partner diagnosed with herpes
Experience frequent irritation after sex
Have recurrent genital redness
Have burning sensation during urination
Are sexually active with multiple partners
Want full STD screening
Testing is especially important after unprotected sex.
Types of Herpes Tests Available in Bangkok
1. Herpes IgG Blood Test (Most Common)
Detects past exposure to HSV-1 and HSV-2.
Highly accurate after 12–16 weeks
Distinguishes between HSV-1 and HSV-2
Does NOT detect very new infection
This is the standard herpes screening test.
2. PCR Swab Test (Best for Active Symptoms)
Detects the virus directly from:
A blister
An ulcer
A red bump suspicious for herpes
Very accurate during an outbreak.
3. IgM Blood Test (NOT Recommended)
Often misleading. Good clinics do not use IgM for herpes.
When Should Men Test for Herpes? (Timing)
Situation | Best Test | Timing |
You have sores/blisters | PCR swab | Immediately |
Recent exposure (<12 weeks) | IgG blood test | Test now + retest at 12 weeks |
Long-term concern | IgG blood test | Anytime |
Partner diagnosed with herpes | IgG test | ASAP |
IgG becomes reliable around 12–16 weeks after exposure.
Herpes Treatment Options
Although herpes cannot be cured, it is fully manageable.
Antiviral Medications:
Acyclovir
Valacyclovir (Valtrex)
Famciclovir
Two usage styles:
1. Episodic treatment:
Take medication at the first sign of symptoms.
2. Daily suppressive therapy:
For men with frequent outbreaks or active sex lives.
Benefits:
Fewer outbreaks
Less severe outbreaks
Reduced viral transmission risk
Improved confidence & sexual wellbeing
How the Testing Process Works at Menscape
1. Discreet consultation
Discuss symptoms, concerns, and sexual history.
2. Sample collection
Blood test (IgG)
Swab test (if outbreak present)
3. Fast results
PCR swab: 1–2 days
IgG test: 2–4 days
4. Treatment & counseling
Medication + prevention strategies.
Living With Herpes: What Men Should Know
Very manageable with medication
Does NOT affect fertility
Does NOT affect testosterone, erections, or performance
You can have a normal sex life
Outbreaks usually decrease over time
Transmission can be significantly reduced with suppression therapy
Herpes is common — and far less life-impacting than most men fear.
Why Men Choose Herpes Testing in Bangkok
Fast, private testing
Expert interpretation
Accurate PCR and IgG testing
Discreet treatment
No judgment
Affordable compared to Western clinics
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
If I test positive, will it stay positive forever?
Yes — IgG remains positive for life.
Does herpes affect erections?
No — except if pain during outbreak interferes temporarily.
Can herpes spread without symptoms?
Yes — asymptomatic shedding occurs occasionally.
Can I drink alcohol during outbreaks?
Yes, but alcohol may trigger outbreaks in some men.
Does treatment reduce transmission?
Daily valacyclovir reduces transmission by 50–80%.
Key Takeaways
Herpes is common, manageable, and not life-threatening.
Testing includes IgG bloodwork and PCR swabs.
Early, accurate testing gives clarity and peace of mind.
Treatment dramatically reduces outbreaks and transmission.
Menscape provides fast, discreet STD screening for men.
📩 Need confidential herpes testing? Book your private sexual health evaluation at Menscape Bangkok.
