HSV-2 IgG antibodies are a measure that reflects the immune system’s response to Herpes Simplex Virus type 2 (HSV-2), the virus most commonly associated with genital herpes. These antibodies indicate prior exposure to HSV-2, even if no symptoms were experienced. They typically develop within several weeks after infection and remain present long-term. The test detects whether an individual has been infected at some point but cannot determine the timing of infection or whether the virus is currently active.
Testing for HSV-2 IgG antibodies is recommended for individuals with recurrent genital symptoms, those with new sexual partners, or during pregnancy to assess transmission risk. It’s also relevant for people undergoing IVF or immunosuppressive therapy, where latent infections can affect outcomes.
HSV-2 is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, including genital-genital, oral-genital, or anal-genital contact. The virus can be spread even when symptoms are not present, through asymptomatic viral shedding.
A positive result means the immune system has developed antibodies against HSV-2, indicating previous infection. It does not reflect current infectivity or activity level, but it confirms that the virus is present in the body and may be intermittently contagious.