Best method of getting anonymous STD test for HSV-2? (how to, woman, gay)
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In the past, I have had sex with 1 woman who told me that she had HSV-2 (that of course doesn't count anyone who didn't inform me in the past). As of the last time I got checked for STDs a few years ago, I was clean. However, I don't believe I was ever tested for HSV-2. Either way, I recently had sex with her again about 6 weeks ago. Currently, I am not showing any symptoms of HSV-2. It sounds like based on what I have read so far, I need to get a HSV-2 blood test done to be sure. I've seen these websites where you can order a comprehensive STD test (or just order tests for a specific STD) and then you get the test done at a lab the next day. An example of this type of website is called stdcheck.com. Would you recommend doing testing through them if you want the results to be private? The STD clinics around my area do not seem to do HSV-2 blood tests at all. I would like to avoid going through my doctor in case I do have HSV-2 (I heard that they will increase your premium in that case). I do not mind paying a little more in order to keep the results private. Thanks!
Location: RI, MA, VT, WI, IL, CA, IN (that one sucked), KY
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Magnatomicflux
Why the **** would you knowingly sleep with someone who had genital herpes for a SECOND time?
Oh come off it, it is super common. I'm negative for it as of my last test, but have dated people that have it. Not that huge a deal and precautions can be taken (they both took meds for it). If you've slept with a handful of people in your life the odds are huge you've slept with someone that had it.
Anyway, OP, if you're near a major metro area (and probably most mid size metro areas), there are STD clinics at many of the largest hospitals that are free/donation only, and not tied to your med insurance / doctors office. This is the one for the Boston area: Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) Testing and Treatment- MGH
Look for something similar in your area. If you're having trouble, contact a local gay health alliance type group in your area and they'll know who offers what.
I find it hard to believe that any testing clinic cannot test for HSV2. It is sometimes not included in the standard test panel but it's a simple and common test. I've used the online places. They are just referrals to a local clinic. Last few times it was Labcorp. In and out in 15 minutes, test results online within 24 hours. They will ASK for personal info but just decline. You'll have to give an email address if you want online access.
Location: RI, MA, VT, WI, IL, CA, IN (that one sucked), KY
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Quote:
Originally Posted by oceangaia
I find it hard to believe that any testing clinic cannot test for HSV2. It is sometimes not included in the standard test panel but it's a simple and common test. I've used the online places. They are just referrals to a local clinic. Last few times it was Labcorp. In and out in 15 minutes, test results online within 24 hours. They will ASK for personal info but just decline. You'll have to give an email address if you want online access.
One would think so, but it is apparently the case. I've heard from more than a few people that they've specifically requested the additional screen as it is rarely in the standard screen and their PCPs refused to add it. Not sure if it is a cost issue or a lack of availability issue.
One would think so, but it is apparently the case. I've heard from more than a few people that they've specifically requested the additional screen as it is rarely in the standard screen and their PCPs refused to add it. Not sure if it is a cost issue or a lack of availability issue.
A PCP requests tests, not performs them. Don't put it on the lab. Like you said, skip the PCP. You don't need a middleman to order a test and you can consult with your physician or another physician afterwards on the results if you feel it is necessary.
Location: RI, MA, VT, WI, IL, CA, IN (that one sucked), KY
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Quote:
Originally Posted by oceangaia
A PCP requests tests, not performs them. Don't put it on the lab. Like you said, skip the PCP. You don't need a middleman to order a test and you can consult with your physician or another physician afterwards on the results if you feel it is necessary.
I don't know your system, but if I'm getting a test for anything through my HMO, the PCP needs to order the test or refer me to a specialist who will do the ordering. If I can't convince them to put the test on the sheet, it is not getting tested for.
I can and do go my own route, but not through my insurance. I just can't ask the lab to add a test with my insurance.
I don't know your system, but if I'm getting a test for anything through my HMO, the PCP needs to order the test or refer me to a specialist who will do the ordering. If I can't convince them to put the test on the sheet, it is not getting tested for.
I can and do go my own route, but not through my insurance. I just can't ask the lab to add a test with my insurance.
The OP said "STD clinics around my area do not seem to do HSV-2 blood tests at all". Name specifically a major testing lab that does general STD tests but cannot test for HSV2.
It appears in your case that it isn't the clinic itself refusing to do the test but rather your doctor refusing to order it. This thread wasn't about insurance coverage.
Location: RI, MA, VT, WI, IL, CA, IN (that one sucked), KY
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Quote:
Originally Posted by oceangaia
The OP said "STD clinics around my area do not seem to do HSV-2 blood tests at all". Name specifically a major testing lab that does general STD tests but cannot test for HSV2.
The OP said that. I have no reason not to believe them. I do not know where they live. They may not live in a place with a major testing lab.
Most people, unless they can find a free/donation clinic like the one to the link I posted, can't get tested. These tests aren't cheap. Several hundred dollars usually and most people don't have that.
The person wanted advice on how to get anonymously tested for HSV2. Going through your doctor / HMO will not get that done. I've explained how to get that done. The end.
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