Genital herpes is a common problem which most of the pregnant ladies face. Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus, which does not pose a threat to unborn child in most of the conditions.
Herpes & Pregnancy – Risk Factors For Unborn Baby:
The risk if transmitting the herpes simplex virus to the unborn baby depends upon various factors. Some of these factors are:
- If the unborn baby is exposed to the herpes lesions at the time of delivery then there are chances that it might catch the infection.
- If the mother does not have the antibodies for herpes simplex virus then the baby might be at risk.
- If the unborn baby has time to acquire the antibodies before the delivery then there are fewer chances that the baby will suffer from the disease.
Herpes & Pregnancy – Effect On Mothers:
Most women, who had suffered from herpes previously, already have the antibodies which can fight the disease presently. It may be so that they do not have genital herpes. Actually, during pregnancy the immune system of the body becomes weak and as the result such kinds of outbreaks takes place.
In most of the cases, the primary infection is more serious than the neonatal disease. So, the precautions are necessary.
Herpes & Pregnancy – Symptoms:
Some of the symptoms that can be noticed when the disease attacks are:
- Painful sores will be there all over your genitals and buttocks.
- Itching will there in the sores.
- A sensation of stinging will be there when you will pass urine.
- Some discharge will be there from the vagina.
- There will be swelling in the glands in groin area.
- Flu like symptoms such as fever, headache, and muscle ache can be noticed.


