Western Blot and my False Positives
I (30F) recently went in for an annual and a pap with my new PCP. During, she asked me if I wanted to do STD testing and, having just entered into a new relationship, I agreed to a full panel. Everything came back negative except for HSV 1 (IgG 4.9) and HSV 2 (IgG 1.3). Both of my parents have had cold sores my whole life and, even though I've never had an outbreak (orally or genitally), I thought HSV 1 could be possible. HSV 2 was a total shock to me. Again, no symptoms, always use condoms.
I immediately started to spiral, found this group and a few others and ordered my western blot with Terri. She noted that it was likely I had HSV 1 given my IgG of 4.9 and familial history but that it was a 85% chance of false positive with HSV2. My kit came a few days later, I had my blood drawn and spun locally and sent off. A little over a week later, Terri messaged and informed me that I am negative for both HSV1 and HSV 2 according to the western blot. She noted during our first appointment that my doctor should have never tested me for HSV without knowledge of exposure or symptoms and that that CDC recommends against.
It's pricy, but worth it in my opinion for the piece of mind.