Gential Herpes and Pregnancy

Genital herpes is a common viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). While many individuals live with HSV without serious complications, pregnancy adds extra considerations for managing any outbreaks and ensuring a safe delivery. At Grosvenor Gardens Healthcare, our private obstetricians offer specialist guidance to help you minimise risks for both mother and baby.

Why Early Advice Matters

• Potential Transmission to Baby: If you have an active outbreak during labour, the virus can pass to the newborn, sometimes causing serious neonatal herpes.
• Individualised Management Plans: Your herpes history, frequency of outbreaks, and personal preferences all influence the best approach for your pregnancy and delivery.
• Prompt Treatment: Antiviral medications can reduce symptoms, speed healing, and lower the chance of passing the infection to your baby.

Understanding Genital Herpes

Causes & Types

• HSV-1: Commonly associated with oral cold sores but can cause genital infections through oral-genital contact.
• HSV-2: Primarily responsible for genital herpes, typically transmitted by sexual contact.

How It Spreads

• Direct Skin-to-Skin Contact: HSV is most contagious when active sores or blisters are present, but it can also spread during periods of asymptomatic shedding.
• Vertical Transmission: A baby can contract HSV in utero (rare) or, more commonly, during vaginal delivery if the mother has an outbreak.

Symptoms to Look Out For

• Painful Blisters or Ulcers: These often appear around the genital area, buttocks, or thighs.
• Itching or Tingling: May signal an impending outbreak.
• Flu-Like Symptoms: Some individuals experience fatigue, fever, or swollen lymph nodes with a first infection.
• Asymptomatic: Many people have no visible sores but can still carry and transmit the virus.

Risks to Mother and Baby

• Primary vs. Recurrent Infection: A first-time infection during pregnancy carries a higher risk of neonatal herpes because the mother’s body hasn’t developed antibodies yet.
• Neonatal Herpes: While rare, it can be severe, leading to neurological complications if not recognised and treated promptly.
• Delivery Considerations: If you have an active outbreak when labour begins, your obstetrician may recommend a caesarean section to reduce the risk of passing HSV to the baby.

Grosvenor Gardens Healthcare’s Approach

1. Early Evaluation
• If you have a history of genital herpes—or suspect you may have it—inform your obstetrician early. We’ll review your outbreak patterns and any existing treatments.
2. Regular Check-Ups
• We’ll monitor for outbreaks during pregnancy and discuss possible preventative antiviral medication, especially in the third trimester, to reduce the risk of an active infection at delivery.
3. Personalised Delivery Plan
• We consider the location, severity, and timing of any outbreaks when deciding whether a vaginal birth is appropriate or if a C-section may be safer.
• Our priority is protecting your baby from transmission while respecting your birthing preferences where possible.
4. Postnatal Care
• If HSV exposure is suspected during delivery, we’ll advise on newborn monitoring and watch for any early signs of neonatal herpes.
• Ongoing support is available for maternal health and emotional wellbeing, given the stress or anxiety genital herpes can sometimes bring.

Practical Tips for Managing Herpes in Pregnancy

• Disclose Past Outbreaks: Keep your healthcare team fully informed, even if outbreaks occurred long before pregnancy.
• Consider Antiviral Medication: Drugs like acyclovir or valaciclovir are often used to suppress outbreaks. Discuss with your obstetrician to balance benefits and risks.
• Stay Healthy Overall: A strong immune system can reduce outbreak frequency. Aim for sufficient sleep, balanced nutrition, and regular, gentle exercise.
• Reduce Transmission Risks: During active sores, abstain from sexual contact. Use barrier protection (condoms) consistently if a partner has herpes or if you’re unsure.
• Seek Prompt Help: If you notice any new symptoms—painful sores, unusual discharge, or anything concerning—contact your obstetrician for immediate assessment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I still have a normal delivery if I have genital herpes?
   Yes, many women with a history of genital herpes have safe, vaginal deliveries—particularly if no active lesions are present. Your obstetrician will evaluate your condition near term to advise on the safest option.
2. Will my baby automatically get HSV if I have it?
   No. Neonatal infection is relatively rare, especially if precautions—like suppressive therapy or a C-section when needed—are put in place.
3. What if I have an outbreak near my due date?
   Inform your healthcare provider immediately. Antiviral therapy or a caesarean birth may be recommended to minimise the risk of transmission.
4. Can I breastfeed if I have genital herpes?
   Yes, genital herpes doesn’t usually affect breastfeeding, unless you have herpetic lesions on the breast. Always follow your doctor’s advice.

Book Your Private Consultation

If you have genital herpes—or are concerned about how it might affect your pregnancy—Grosvenor Gardens Healthcare is here to help. Our private obstetricians provide discreet, expert guidance, supporting you in making the best decisions for a healthy pregnancy and a safe birth.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment at our Dulwich or Belgravia clinic. Let our specialist team help you approach pregnancy with confidence, ensuring both you and your baby receive the highest standard of care.

Other Services we offer: 

Private Gynaecologists

Private GP

Private Paediatrician

Private Obstetrician & Maternity Hospital

Private Colposcopy