I have genital herpes and don’t want to infect my baby!

17-18 weeks pregnant, Health advice, Questions/answers

I don’t know if you can help me, but I have genital herpes. I don’t currently have an outbreak, but I am pregnant and scared for my baby. Please, how can I prevent infecting my baby?

Laura


Laura, pregnant women who know they have genital herpes, should notify their health professional. They will then take precautions when treating you for an outbreak during your pregnancy. Also, around the 36th week of pregnancy, you will be prescribed a treatment to prevent active wounds on your vulva during childbirth. This is to avoid having a cesarean section because the baby’s eyes and mouth could become infected if born vaginally. An infection could lead to severe complications for the baby. If the doctor knows ahead of time, they will do everything to make sure the baby doesn’t become infected.

Marie

The Baby Expert 

 

Discover our videos

Subscribe to a monthly or quarterly package now to access full videos.

Breastfeeding: Specific Situations

Breastfeeding: Specific Situations

Are you breastfeeding and it’s painful? Are you worried you can’t produce enough milk? Along with Dr. Julie Choquette, Marie
Breaking Your Water

Breaking Your Water

One of a pregnant woman’s greatest fears is breaking their water in public. It can happen, but breaking your water
Childbirth in a Birthing Center

Childbirth in a Birthing Center

Marie attends the birth of Amy and Greg’s 4th child. The couple chose to give birth in a birthing home.
Pregnancy Monitoring

Pregnancy Monitoring

Did your pregnancy test come back positive? Congratulations! Now, what are the stages and exams that will lead you down