Tests for genital herpes focus on its causative virus and include viral culture, polymerase chain reaction, and direct or indirect immunofluorescence. The test for genital herpes focuses on the herpes simplex virus that causes genital herpes. The more commonly used method is the polymerase chain reaction, or PCR, which is more reliable and practical. A positive result confirms the diagnosis of genital herpes, but a negative result does not rule it out. Viral culture is more difficult to perform and has a higher false-negative rate; direct or indirect immunofluorescence methods require a large amount of virus and have a high false-negative rate, and are not commonly used. It should be noted that the diagnosis of genital herpes requires a comprehensive medical history and clinical manifestations of genital herpes lesions. If there is any discomfort, it is recommended to seek prompt medical treatment.