Herpes During Pregnancy

The Two Types of Herpes

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) is divided into two categories. HSV Type 1 is usually associated with cold sores around the mouth and lips and Type 2 HSV is associated with genital sores. Either type can infect both areas, though, and environmental factors such as heat, intercourse, menstruation, fever or stress can trigger a new outbreak of sores. Herpes infections are spread through direct contact with an infected individual - whether by sexual intercourse or oral-to-genital contact. An infected person can spread the virus through unwashed hands, either on their own body or to someone else.

One of the Most Common STDs

Herpes is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases, affecting close to a million pregnant women a year in the US alone. About one in four pregnant women has been infected with herpes and yet most are not aware of the infection. Although most pregnant women with genital herpes go on to have healthy babies, there are some who do pass the infection on to their babies during labor and delivery. That is why it is imperative that a woman who knows she has or has had HSV in the past, discusses the situation with her health care provider when she becomes pregnant.

Not Generally a Problem...

Generally speaking, HSV during pregnancy will not likely be problematic provided proper care is administered during delivery of the baby. The biggest area of concern with HSV during pregnancy is if the woman contracts the virus in the latter stages of pregnancy because there is an increased risk of transmission of the virus to the newborn. To reduce this risk, women who are not infected but have an infected partner, should avoid sexual contact when the infection is active in the partner and should also use barrier type protection, such as condoms, at all times. Even if there are no sores visible, the chance of spreading the virus is very high - it isn't worth the risk.

...However, the Risk is High

Since the most significant risk of passing the virus to the newborn

occurs during the labor and delivery of a woman who has an active infection, proper medical care is important. If the infection was acquired prior to conceiving, a doctor will check for lesions and evidence of the disease. Looking for early signs of HSV and monitoring any outbreaks help to ensure the baby will be protected from exposure at the time of birth.

If there is an active infection, or if the mother has recently contracted the virus and there are no outward signs, the doctor will likely prescribe a cesarean birth to ensure the baby is not exposed to the virus and the serious risks that are inherent in a herpes infection in newborns.