Question 1

What is Increased Risk of HIV Acquisition?

Accepted Answer

Increased risk of HIV acquisition refers to biological conditions that make the body more vulnerable to HIV infection during exposure. It is primarily increased by Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV-2) infection, which causes genital sores and attracts CD4+ cells (HIV's target cells) to genital areas. The Herpes Simplex Virus 2 (IgG) Type-Specific Antibody test is the most important test for identifying this significant HIV risk factor.

Question 2

What causes increased risk of HIV acquisition?

Accepted Answer

Increased risk of HIV acquisition is primarily caused by Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV-2) infection, which affects the genital area. HSV-2 creates two main pathways for increased vulnerability: it causes genital sores and breaks in the skin that provide direct entry points for HIV, and it triggers immune responses that attract CD4+ cells to the genital area. CD4+ cells are the primary target cells that HIV infects, so having these cells concentrated at the site of potential HIV exposure creates optimal conditions for transmission. Other sexually transmitted infections can also increase risk, but HSV-2 is one of the most significant biological risk factors, increasing HIV acquisition risk by 2-4 times compared to individuals without HSV-2 infection.

Question 3

What is the best test for HIV risk assessment?

Accepted Answer

The Herpes Simplex Virus 2 (IgG) Type-Specific Antibody test is the most important test for assessing biological HIV risk factors because it detects antibodies to HSV-2, which increases HIV acquisition risk by 2-4 times. This blood test identifies whether you have been infected with HSV-2, even if you have never had noticeable symptoms, since many people with HSV-2 are asymptomatic. Knowing your HSV-2 status allows you to implement enhanced prevention strategies, including antiviral therapy to reduce outbreak frequency and severity, more frequent HIV screening, and informed discussions with sexual partners. The test specifically looks for IgG antibodies, which indicate established infection rather than recent exposure, providing accurate information about your ongoing risk status.

Question 4

When should I get tested for HIV risk factors?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you are sexually active with multiple partners, have had unprotected sexual contact, notice unusual genital sores or recurring blisters, have been diagnosed with any sexually transmitted infection, or are planning to start a new sexual relationship. Testing is also important if you have never been tested for HSV-2 but want to understand your complete sexual health status, since up to 80% of people with HSV-2 do not know they have it. Early identification of risk factors like HSV-2 allows you to take proactive steps to protect yourself, including starting antiviral therapy, scheduling more frequent HIV testing, and making informed prevention decisions. Testing is especially valuable before becoming sexually active with a new partner or if you are in a high-risk demographic group.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of HSV-2 infection that increase HIV risk?

Accepted Answer

Many people with HSV-2 infection experience no noticeable symptoms at all, which is why up to 80% of infected individuals are unaware of their status. When symptoms do occur, they typically include painful genital sores or blisters, burning sensations during urination, itching or tingling in the genital area, and flu-like symptoms during initial outbreaks. Recurrent outbreaks tend to be milder than the first episode and may occur several times per year. Even without visible sores, the virus can still create microscopic breaks in the skin and inflammatory immune responses that increase HIV susceptibility. This is why testing is crucial regardless of whether you have experienced symptoms, as asymptomatic HSV-2 still significantly increases HIV acquisition risk during exposure.

Question 6

Who is at risk for increased HIV acquisition?

Accepted Answer

Individuals with HSV-2 infection are at the highest biological risk, with a 2-4 times greater chance of HIV acquisition compared to those without HSV-2. People who engage in unprotected sex, have multiple sexual partners, or have a sexual partner with HIV face increased exposure risk. Those with other sexually transmitted infections, individuals who share needles, and people with compromised immune systems also have elevated vulnerability. Geographic factors matter too, with higher risk in areas where HIV prevalence is elevated. Men who have sex with men, commercial sex workers, and young women in high-prevalence areas face disproportionate risk. Anyone who has never been tested for HSV-2 should consider testing, as the infection is extremely common and often asymptomatic, silently increasing HIV vulnerability during any potential exposure.

Question 7

What happens if HSV-2 infection is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated HSV-2 infection remains in your body permanently and continues to significantly increase your HIV acquisition risk throughout your lifetime. Without antiviral treatment, you may experience more frequent and severe outbreaks, each creating additional opportunities for HIV transmission if exposed. The persistent immune activation caused by HSV-2 keeps CD4+ cells concentrated in genital tissues, maintaining elevated HIV susceptibility even between visible outbreaks. Untreated HSV-2 can also be unknowingly transmitted to sexual partners, increasing their HIV risk as well. For people who are HIV-negative, leaving HSV-2 untreated means missing the opportunity to reduce HIV acquisition risk through suppressive antiviral therapy. The combination of HSV-2 and HIV is particularly concerning, as HSV-2 can increase HIV viral load and accelerate HIV disease progression if both infections are present.

Question 8

Can HIV risk factors be identified with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the Herpes Simplex Virus 2 (IgG) Type-Specific Antibody blood test can identify one of the most significant biological risk factors for HIV acquisition. This blood test detects antibodies your immune system produces in response to HSV-2 infection, providing accurate results even if you have never had symptoms. The test is highly specific, distinguishing HSV-2 from HSV-1, which typically causes oral herpes. Results are typically available within a few days and indicate whether you have been infected with HSV-2, which increases HIV acquisition risk by 2-4 times. While a blood test cannot predict whether you will acquire HIV, it identifies a major biological vulnerability that you can address through prevention strategies, antiviral treatment, and increased HIV screening frequency. Testing is confidential and does not require a doctor visit at Private MD Labs.

Question 9

How is HSV-2 infection treated to reduce HIV risk?

Accepted Answer

HSV-2 is treated with antiviral medications such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir, which suppress the virus and reduce outbreak frequency and severity. Suppressive daily antiviral therapy is the most effective approach for reducing both HSV-2 symptoms and HIV acquisition risk, as it decreases viral shedding, reduces genital inflammation, and minimizes the number of CD4+ cells concentrated in genital tissues. During active outbreaks, higher doses of antivirals help heal sores faster and reduce the duration of viral activity. Beyond medication, enhanced HIV prevention strategies are crucial for people with HSV-2, including consistent condom use, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for those at high risk of HIV exposure, and regular HIV testing every 3-6 months. Discussing your HSV-2 status with sexual partners and healthcare providers ensures comprehensive risk reduction and informed decision-making about sexual health.

Question 10

How can I prevent increased HIV acquisition risk?

Accepted Answer

Prevention starts with knowing your status through testing for HSV-2 and other sexually transmitted infections that increase HIV vulnerability. If you test positive for HSV-2, taking daily suppressive antiviral therapy significantly reduces viral activity and lowers HIV acquisition risk. Using condoms consistently and correctly during all sexual activity provides a physical barrier that reduces both HIV and HSV-2 transmission risk. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is highly effective at preventing HIV infection and is especially important for individuals with HSV-2 or other risk factors. Limiting the number of sexual partners, avoiding sex during HSV-2 outbreaks, and maintaining open communication with partners about sexual health status all contribute to risk reduction. Regular HIV testing every 3-6 months allows for early detection if exposure occurs, and avoiding alcohol or drug use that impairs judgment about safe sex practices further protects your health.

Question 11

What can I do at home to manage HSV-2 and reduce HIV risk?

Accepted Answer

Taking prescribed antiviral medications consistently as directed is the most important home management strategy for HSV-2. Maintaining a healthy immune system through adequate sleep, stress management, balanced nutrition, and regular exercise helps reduce HSV-2 outbreak frequency, which in turn minimizes periods of elevated HIV vulnerability. During outbreaks, keeping the affected area clean and dry, wearing loose cotton underwear, and avoiding tight clothing promotes healing. Taking lysine supplements and avoiding arginine-rich foods may help some people reduce outbreak frequency, though evidence is mixed. Identifying and avoiding personal outbreak triggers such as stress, illness, or sun exposure can prevent recurrences. Most importantly, abstaining from sexual activity during active outbreaks and using condoms consistently between outbreaks protects both you and your partners. Staying informed about HIV prevention options like PrEP and maintaining regular testing schedules ensures comprehensive sexual health management from home.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

HIV Risk Factors Blood Test

What is Increased Risk of HIV Acquisition?

What causes increased risk of HIV acquisition?

What is the best test for HIV risk assessment?

When should I get tested for HIV risk factors?

References

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