Sexual Health › Herpes Test
Herpes Testing in Busan
Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 or HSV-2). The most accurate test is a swab of an active sore, so it helps to see a doctor while symptoms are present.
What genital herpes is
Herpes spreads through skin-to-skin contact, including oral sex. Many people carry the virus without knowing it. Outbreaks can cause tingling, small blisters or painful sores on the vulva, vagina, buttocks or thighs, sometimes with fever and swollen glands in the first episode. The virus stays in the body, but outbreaks often become milder and less frequent over time.
Types of herpes tests
- Swab PCR test : the doctor swabs a fresh blister or sore. This is the most reliable way to confirm herpes and tells you whether it is HSV-1 or HSV-2. It works best within the first few days of a sore appearing.
- Blood antibody test : shows past infection, but cannot tell where the infection is or when it happened, and can give false positives. Routine blood testing for people without symptoms is generally not recommended, but a doctor may suggest it in specific situations.
When to get tested
- You have new blisters, sores or painful cracks in the genital area.
- A partner has been diagnosed with herpes and you want to understand your status (discuss whether blood testing helps).
- You are pregnant and have a history of genital sores; tell your prenatal doctor.
Treatment
There is no cure, but antiviral medicines shorten outbreaks and reduce symptoms. For frequent outbreaks, daily suppressive therapy can reduce recurrences and lower the chance of passing the virus to a partner. Avoid sex during outbreaks and use condoms between them.
Cost and insurance
A visit and swab test for active symptoms is typically partly covered under National Health Insurance (NHI). Blood tests for screening without symptoms are more often self-pay. Ask for a quote first; see the STD test cost guide .
Tips for foreigners
- Book quickly when sores appear; a healed sore cannot be swabbed.
- Bring your ARC or passport and call ahead to ask about English-speaking staff. The 1330 hotline can interpret.
- Take a dated photo of the sores in case they heal before your visit.
More guidance: international patients .
Related
Elsewhere in Korea
When to get help sooner
See a doctor promptly if you cannot pass urine because of pain, have a severe first outbreak with fever, or are pregnant (especially late in pregnancy) and develop genital sores. Go to an emergency room for severe headache with stiff neck, confusion, or sensitivity to light.
Busan clinics for herpes testing
These clinics are listed in our directory with STD testing or extended hours. Call ahead to confirm they can see you while sores are present.
| Clinic | Area | Phone | Listed features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roaen OB/GYN Clinic | Seomyeon (Bujeon-dong) | 051-804-3000 | Sat, Evenings, STD tests |
| Eroom Women's Clinic (Seomyeon) | Seomyeon (Bujeon-dong) | Not listed | Sat, STD tests, Fertility |
| Mirae Women's Hospital | Gaegeum | 051-890-9999 | Sat, STD tests |
| Queens Park Women's Hospital | Jwa-dong (Jangsan) | 051-715-4100 | Delivers, Sat, STD tests |
| Eve & Adam Women's Clinic | Centum City (U-dong) | 051-743-7585 | Sat, Evenings, STD tests |
| Samsung Jeil OB/GYN Clinic | Centum City (U-dong) | 051-747-3999 | Sat, STD tests, Fertility |
| Sehwa Hospital | Oncheon-dong | Not listed | Sat, STD tests, Fertility |
| Mari Women's Clinic | Daeyeon-dong (Kyungsung-Pukyong Univ) | 051-626-1009 | Sat, STD tests |
| She's Bon OB/GYN Clinic | Suyeong / Millak area | Not listed | Sat, STD tests |
| L Women's Clinic | Hadan-dong | 051-207-2727 | Sat, Evenings, STD tests |
| The Mizwell OB/GYN Clinic | Hwamyeong-dong | 051-365-3575 | Female doctor, Delivers, Sat, STD tests, Fertility |
Herpes test FAQ
Is herpes included in a standard STD panel?
Often not. Many panels focus on bacterial infections and HIV/syphilis. If you want herpes testing, ask specifically and discuss whether a swab or blood test fits your situation.
Can a blood test tell me when I got herpes?
No. Antibody tests show past exposure but not timing or location, and HSV-1 antibodies are very common from childhood cold sores.
Can I pass on herpes without symptoms?
Yes, the virus can shed without visible sores. Condoms and daily antiviral therapy lower, but do not eliminate, the risk.
Is herpes a problem in pregnancy?
It can be, especially if a first infection happens late in pregnancy. Tell your prenatal doctor about any history of genital herpes so they can plan care.