Herpes Test in Singapore

Medically Reviewed By: Dr Jana Lim, Board-Accredited Family Physician

Board-Accredited Family Physician | MBChB, MMed (FM)

MBChB, MMed (FM) | Last updated: 19 Oct 2026

Found this page helpful?Helpful?

What Is Herpes?

Herpes is a lifelong viral sexually transmitted infection (STI). It is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which spreads easily between people and can affect the mouth, the genitals or both.

There are two main types of HSV:

• HSV-1 is commonly linked to oral herpes but can also be transmitted to the genitals through oral-genital contact.
• HSV-2 is typically associated with genital herpes and is more easily transmitted through sexual activity.

In 2020, genital herpes ranked as the fifth most commonly reported STI in Singapore.

Is Shingles the Same as Herpes?

Shingles and herpes differ in the virus causing them, how they are transmitted, the symptoms they produce, and how frequently they recur.

What Are Symptoms of Herpes?

Herpes symptoms typically affect the skin and surrounding areas, and may be accompanied by general discomfort or flu-like symptoms. Some people experience episodes of symptoms known as outbreaks, while others remain asymptomatic or have symptoms so mild they may go unnoticed.

Common signs of a herpes outbreak include:

• Painful blisters or open sores on or around the mouth, genitals, anus, thighs, or buttocks
• Tingling, burning, or itching sensations in the affected area before blisters appear
• Pain or discomfort during urination, especially if sores are near the urethra
• Flu-like symptoms such as fever, body aches, and swollen lymph nodes

These symptoms usually appear in episodes known as outbreaks. While the first outbreak is often the most severe, subsequent ones may be shorter and less intense. However, they can continue to recur over time.

How Does Herpes Spread / Transmit?

Herpes spreads through direct contact with an infected person's skin or body fluids, particularly during outbreaks when the virus is most active and contagious, such as when blisters or sores are present.

Common ways the herpes simplex virus is transmitted include:

• Vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who carries the virus
• Kissing, particularly if cold sores are present
• Touching infected skin, especially during intimate activity
• Sharing personal items like lip balm or razors when the virus is active

Steps you can take to lower the risk of getting or transmitting herpes include:

• Avoid sexual contact during outbreaks
• Use condoms or dental dams, though they may not cover all infected areas
• Communicate openly with partners about STI testing and history
• Take antiviral medication if prescribed to help control outbreaks and reduce viral activity on the skin

These precautions can lower the chances of transmission but may not remove the risk completely.

What Is the Incubation Period for Herpes?

The incubation period for herpes usually ranges from 2 to 12 days after exposure, although symptoms may take weeks, months, or even years to appear.

What Are Complications of Herpes?

If left unmanaged, herpes can result in a range of health complications, particularly during the first outbreak or with repeated recurrences. These may include:

• Increased risk of other STIs due to open sores that make it easier for viruses or bacteria to enter the body
• Herpes keratitis, a viral infection of the eye that may cause pain, sensitivity to light, or blurred vision
• Herpes encephalitis, a rare but serious condition involving inflammation of the brain
• Neonatal herpes, which can occur when the virus is passed from mother to baby during childbirth and may lead to severe illness or death

How to Test for Genital Herpes?

Genital herpes is typically diagnosed using blood tests that detect antibodies your immune system produces in response to HSV. These tests help determine whether you have been exposed to HSV-1 or HSV-2, even if you do not have symptoms. A blood test taken soon after exposure may be negative, as HSV antibodies can take several weeks to develop (the window period).

If blisters or sores are present, a swab may be taken from the affected area. In such cases, PCR (polymerase chain reaction) testing is often used to detect the virus's DNA.

Testing is recommended if you suspect exposure or have a partner diagnosed with herpes, even if you have no symptoms, as it is the only way to know if you are infected.

How Long Does a Herpes Test Take?

The herpes testing process at our clinic typically takes less than 30 minutes for sample collection during quieter periods. To avoid long waiting times, we recommend calling ahead to find a suitable slot.

Once your sample is collected, test results are generally ready within 2 to 4 working days. You will be contacted once they are available.

Is Herpes Curable?

At present, there is no cure for herpes. Once a person is infected, the virus remains in the body for life, lying dormant in nerve cells and reactivating from time to time. Although the virus cannot be completely eliminated, medical treatment is available to help manage the condition.

How Is Herpes Treated?

Treatment for herpes involves antiviral medication, which manages symptoms and reduces the risk of transmission. These medications can help:

• Shorten the duration and lessen the severity of outbreaks
• Reduce how often outbreaks occur over time
• Lower the risk of passing the virus to sexual partners

How Much Does Herpes Testing Cost in Singapore?

At Singapore Women's Clinic, we offer confidential and prompt testing for herpes and other STIs. Our pricing is as follows:

Test	Price*
Consultation	From $49.05
Herpes Simplex IgG Antibody (Type 1) Blood Test	$41.42
Herpes Simplex IgG Antibody (Type 2) Blood Test	$41.42
Herpes Simplex Type 1 & 2 PCR Swab Test	$220.18
Herpes Zoster Blood Test	$49.05
STD Screening Packages
Safe Screen 3 (6 tests) – Blood Test HIV, Syphilis, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2 HIV, Syphilis, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2	$148
Essential (8 tests) – Blood + Swab Test HIV, Syphilis, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2, Chlamydia PCR, Gonorrhoea PCR HIV, Syphilis, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2, Chlamydia PCR, Gonorrhoea PCR	$288
Complete Female STD Screen (15 tests) – Blood + Swab Test HIV, Syphilis, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2, Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Mycoplasma genitalium, Mycoplasma hominis, Trichomonas, Ureaplasma parvum, Ureaplasma urealyticum, Monilia / Candida, Gardnerella Vaginosis HIV, Syphilis, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2, Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Mycoplasma genitalium, Mycoplasma hominis, Trichomonas, Ureaplasma parvum, Ureaplasma urealyticum, Monilia / Candida, Gardnerella Vaginosis	$478
Genital Ulcer PCR Testing (7 tests) – Swab Test Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2, Haemophilus Ducreyi (Chancroid), Cytomegalovirus, Lymphogranuloma Venereum, Treponema Pallidum (Syphilis), Varicella Zoster Virus Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2, Haemophilus Ducreyi (Chancroid), Cytomegalovirus, Lymphogranuloma Venereum, Treponema Pallidum (Syphilis), Varicella Zoster Virus	$318
Enhanced Genital Ulcer Testing (18 tests) – Blood + Swab Test Blood: HIV, Syphilis, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C Ulcer PCR Swab: Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2, Haemophilus Ducreyi (Chancroid), Cytomegalovirus, Lymphogranuloma Venereum, Treponema Pallidum (Syphilis), Varicella Zoster Virus Genital Swab: Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Mycoplasma genitalium, Mycoplasma hominis, Trichomonas, Ureaplasma parvum, Ureaplasma urealyticum Blood: HIV, Syphilis, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C Ulcer PCR Swab: Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2, Haemophilus Ducreyi (Chancroid), Cytomegalovirus, Lymphogranuloma Venereum, Treponema Pallidum (Syphilis), Varicella Zoster Virus Genital Swab: Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Mycoplasma genitalium, Mycoplasma hominis, Trichomonas, Ureaplasma parvum, Ureaplasma urealyticum	$538

*All prices are NETT and inclusive of GST.

Payment Options We Accept

Credit Cards

NETS / PayNow / GrabPay

Cash

Why Choose Our Sexual Health Services?