Pregnancy - Hayward,CA

Updated on February 14, 2010
J.F. asks from Hayward, CA
16 answers

Will my baby get infected with the herpes virus if i'm infected with it?

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P.C.

answers from San Francisco on

I have herpes(frequently!) and had vaginal births with both my children, no problem. I was very careful with my diet beginning about a month before my due date.With my second I took Zovirax for a week or two before because I was under a lot more stress.
P

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R.M.

answers from Nashville on

It's been years so maybe this has changed, but my friend who has it told me that she was advised against have a vaginal birth, even if she wasn't in the midst of an outbreak. They told her that if she had a cesarean, everything should be fine.

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S.B.

answers from Redding on

You definitely need to discuss this with your doctor so proper precautions can be taken. Having an outbreak during your pregnancy shouldn't harm your baby, but it depends on if you have an outdbreak during delivery.
I don't have genital herpes, but got herpes zoster (shingles). They did everything to keep me out of labor because if my son had been born during the worst of the outbreak, I wouldn't have been able to hold him or nurse him. My outbreak was across my chest and breast and was hideous. I got semi-cleared up in time when my water broke and my son has no ill affects.
Just be sure to talk to your doctor to ensure you'll have a wonderful and healthy baby.
Best wishes!

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S.S.

answers from Washington DC on

definetly make your doctor aware because a vaginal birth could transmit it to the child. the doctor would know more. im sure there is different outcomes if you are having an outbreak or whatnot.

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J.K.

answers from Redding on

I have had 2 kids no zovirex no problems. My first dr wanted me to go it for the last month I know my outbreaks are rare did not want to put baby on those drugs. No problem. Second baby midwives didn't even press issue as I have done my research. Most problems occur when you are infected and have first outbreak while pregnant. Very dangerous. If you already had it your body is used to it and is not reacting the same way. Please do your own research talk at length with dr and question the reccommendations they should be knowledgeable if they are telling you to take pills. Many many women have this and have healthy babies. Also was inclined to give the eye ointment because of the herpes but later learned it would not make any difference. I do not know your frequency and you must do what will keep you comfortable but I suggest continuing to talk about your choices I believe you have already recieved some disinformation on this site.

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I.T.

answers from San Francisco on

You can still have vaginal birth as long as you don't have an outbreak during labor. The child can become blind. What the doctor will do - if you choose to have vaginal birth - is start you on medication 1 month to 2 weeks before your due date to surpress an outbreak. Don't feel pressured into c-section if you are set on trying for vaginal.

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K.M.

answers from San Francisco on

Not if your obstetrician knows. Definately not if you have a c-section. NOT in the womb. It's all about the birth because it's a contact issue.

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D.R.

answers from Houston on

Just make sure your Dr knows and everything will be fine.

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T.H.

answers from San Francisco on

Ask your OB - likely you will need a C-section so the baby will not get infected. Herpes infection in a neonate is very serious.

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S.N.

answers from San Luis Obispo on

I have it and neither of my children do.

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J.M.

answers from San Francisco on

Just went through this... Your baby is protected while in the womb. The only chance of transmitting herpes to your baby is if you are having an active outbreak at the time of delivery. My OBGYN had me take acyclovir for 4 weeks before my due date as a preventive measure. If I had had an outbreak at the time of delivery they would have delivered my baby by c-section. Please talk to your prenatal care provider about your concerns so that they can recommend a treatment plan that is right for you and your baby. Good luck.

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N.R.

answers from Detroit on

I think you might want to ask your doctor. I know I've heard that if you have gential herpes you may not be able to have a vaginal birth. But I would ask a doctor about any concerns you may have.

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K.H.

answers from Sacramento on

shouldn't be a problem as long you are not having an outbreak during delivery. Just to be safe I would ask that your doctor put you on preventive meds about 30 days or so before your due date. Not only could this reduce your risk for outbreak but it will also take the stress away about worrying. Talk to your doctor as much as you can and everything should be fine. Try not to worry.

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L.D.

answers from Modesto on

Yes it is possible. You MUST inform your dr that you have this condition. If you are having an outbreak at the time of delivery the dr will do a c-section. Usually dr's will put you on acyclovir prophylactically (as a precaution) about 6-8 weeks prior to delivery to ensure you will not have an outbreak at the time of delivery (it is safe for the baby). You can deliver vaginally. Other than that, remember if you also suffer from cold sores (also herpes) you can pass this to your baby during outbreaks if you kiss her, share food/utensils with her, let her suck your fingers or touch her after touching a cold sore. Washing hands is very important.Same for anyone who comes in contact with your baby - anyone can give it to the baby after it is born. Wash hands! Start treatment for colds sores the minute you start to get them to minimize any exposure time for the baby- the sooner you recover the less chance of infection. Don't worry - just enjoy your new little one and take care of yourself!

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W.E.

answers from Sacramento on

The only way the baby can get herpes is if you are having an outbreak during a vaginal delivery. Tell your doctor you want a c-section. Do not let the Dr. try and talk you into waiting and seeing if you're having an outbreak when you go into labor. Herpes can come on quickly under stress and you sure dont want to risk having an outbreak halfway thru labor and having to switch to an emergency c-section or worse have the baby deliver before they can give you the c-section. Make sure the doctor understands that as soon as you go into labor you want the c-section. or if you're positive of just how far along you are, you can schedule one ahead of time and not wait for labor. good luck and enjoy your baby!!

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M.F.

answers from Salinas on

nope, take the daily pill (forgot what its called) for a month surrounding delivery, and make sure to keep your doctor apprised of the situation

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