Knowing How to Live with Genital Herpes Helps Put You In Charge
Pregnancy and genital herpes
If you are pregnant and know you have genital herpes, talk to your doctor. You'll be reassured to learn that the chance of your baby contracting the virus is very unlikely. 1 If an infant is infected with the virus, it is most likely transmitted during vaginal delivery.1, 2 Some of the antibodies your body produces against the virus are passed on to your baby, providing natural protection at the time of delivery. 1
Talk to your doctor if you have genital herpes and want to become, or think you are, pregnant.
Pregnant? Here's what you should know:
- It's very important for you to know your triggers (click here for more info) and keep your immune system healthy with adequate rest, exercise and a well-balanced diet.3
- See your physician throughout your pregnancy to discuss what you can be doing to effectively manage genital herpes.1
- When labour begins, your doctor will want to examine you carefully to check for any signs of an outbreak. If you have an outbreak when it's time to deliver, your doctor will likely perform a Caesarian sectionAn incision in the abdomen that allows for the delivery of a baby directly from the womb.1
- If there are no signs or symptoms of an outbreak when it's time to deliver, your doctor will most likely recommend a normal vaginal delivery. With no evidence of the herpes virus being active, the risk to your baby is very small.1
- Be on the lookout for any signs of herpes infection in your baby, such as: blisters and/or sores, rash, low energy, agitated behaviour or a lack of appetite. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns. 1
Did you know?
The risk of a newborn contracting genital herpes is greater if a woman has her first episode of genital herpes during the last trimester of her pregnancy than if she becomes infected early in the pregnancy. 1
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