Genital herpes in pregnancy

Genital herpes, also known as herpes simplex virus, is a viral infection that affects almost 1,600,000 new people each year.

What are the symptoms?

In most cases, there are usually no symptoms. Many people have herpes and don't know it. Some people develop painful blisters or sores in the genital area (HSV-2).

Can genital herpes cause other problems?

There is no cure, which means that once you get it, it's a lifelong infection. Genital herpes makes you more vulnerable to HIV. Some people will get blisters or sores that reappear after a few years. It can pass to the baby during pregnancy or childbirth, causing serious health problems.

How is it transmitted?

Genital herpes is spread through skin contact, which in most cases occurs during sexual activity, including oral, anal, and vaginal sex. It can be passed on even if someone doesn't have visible wounds or blisters. HSV-1, a herpes virus that usually causes mouth or lip sores, can be spread from the mouth to the genital area through oral sex.

Genital herpes can be transmitted mainly in two ways:

Sexual activity, including oral, anal and vaginal intercourse.
Mother to child during pregnancy or childbirth

How is it diagnosed?

Genital herpes can be diagnosed by a doctor. It is diagnosed in one of three ways:

Pelvic exam
Culture of blisters or sores if present
Blood test (usually not done)

What are the treatment options?

There is currently no cure; however, there are medications that can be used to relieve symptoms and reduce the frequency of flare-ups.

Can genital herpes be prevented?

There are only two ways to prevent genital herpes. First, refrain from sexual contact of any kind. The second is a long-term monogamous relationship, such as marriage, with someone who has had no other sexual partners. Condom use reduces the risk of transmission of genital herpes, but does not prevent it. Using condoms reduces the risk by 40%.