High-Risk Pregnancy
Herpes
What is herpes (HSV)?
Genital herpes can be spread to the baby during delivery, if a
woman has an active infection at that time. Herpes is a sexually
transmitted disease caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Herpes
infections can cause blisters and ulcers on the mouth or face (oral
herpes), or in the genital area (genital herpes). HSV is a life-long
infection.
Symptoms of HSV may include painful blisters or open sores in the genital
area, which may be preceded by a tingling or burning sensation in the
legs, buttocks, or genital region. The herpes sores usually disappear
within a few weeks, but the virus remains in the body and the lesions may
recur from time to time.
It is important that women avoid contracting herpes during pregnancy,
because a first episode during pregnancy creates a greater risk of
transmission to the newborn. Women may be treated with an antiviral
medication such as acyclovir if the disease is severe. Genital herpes can
cause potentially fatal infections in babies if the mother has active
genital herpes (shedding the virus) at the time of delivery. Cesarean
delivery is usually recommended for active genital herpes. Fortunately,
infection of an infant is rare among women with genital herpes infection.
Protection from genital herpes includes abstaining from sex when symptoms
are present, and using latex condoms between outbreaks.
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