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Updated December 17, 2014.
In most cases genital herpes does not cause any long-term health consequences. People with weakened immune systems can experience long-lasting and severe episodes of herpes and pregnant women should be closely monitored for active episodes. If the first episode of herpes occurs during pregnancy she can pass the virus to her unborn baby and she may be at higher risk of premature delivery. Approximately 50 percent of babies born with neonatal herpes die or suffer neurological damage.
Babies can develop encephalitis, severe rashes, and eye problems, however immediate treatment with acyclovir greatly improves the outcome for many babies.
The risk to babies depends greatly on whether the mother is experiencing a first episode or a recurrent episode of genital herpes. Because it takes days to weeks to get results from viral cultures that determine whether active herpes virus is present, many physicians will perform cesarean section on pregnant women diagnosed with genital herpes. However, if no active herpes is present at the time of birth there is little or no risk to the baby with vaginal delivery. If you are pregnant and have herpes, you should talk with your physician to determine the best delivery method for your case.
Because genital herpes creates open sores, people with herpes are at higher risk of contracting HIV and AIDS.
Condoms offer some protection during the times when you are not experiencing symptoms, although it is possible that not all affected areas are covered by a condom.
If you suspect you may have herpes, discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider.
"I was recently diagnosed with genital herpes. I was shocked and appalled. The doctor said it looked like a second outbreak, however I can't seem to remember having the first. ...
... I was proud of being "disease" free and have always taken care of myself. I get tested for AIDS once a year with my Pap and except for this new boyfriend have always practiced safe sex. The doctor did tell me I could have gotten it from someone even if they were wearing a condom but I still accuse the new boyfriend.
Is there anyone else dealing with this disease who can help me with these feelings of depression? ... I really need help sorting all of this out."
CAPTIV8ING
Sources: US Herpes Cases on the Decline, National Health Information Center, http://www.healthfinder.gov/news/newsstory.asp?docid=534518, Accessed 4/30/07; STD Facts - Genital Herpes, CDC, http://www.cdc.gov/std/Herpes/STDFact-Herpes.htm, Accessed 4/30/07
Updated December 17, 2014.
In most cases genital herpes does not cause any long-term health consequences. People with weakened immune systems can experience long-lasting and severe episodes of herpes and pregnant women should be closely monitored for active episodes. If the first episode of herpes occurs during pregnancy she can pass the virus to her unborn baby and she may be at higher risk of premature delivery. Approximately 50 percent of babies born with neonatal herpes die or suffer neurological damage.
Babies can develop encephalitis, severe rashes, and eye problems, however immediate treatment with acyclovir greatly improves the outcome for many babies.
The risk to babies depends greatly on whether the mother is experiencing a first episode or a recurrent episode of genital herpes. Because it takes days to weeks to get results from viral cultures that determine whether active herpes virus is present, many physicians will perform cesarean section on pregnant women diagnosed with genital herpes. However, if no active herpes is present at the time of birth there is little or no risk to the baby with vaginal delivery. If you are pregnant and have herpes, you should talk with your physician to determine the best delivery method for your case.
Because genital herpes creates open sores, people with herpes are at higher risk of contracting HIV and AIDS.
How can you protect yourself and your partner from HSV?
If you have herpes you can avoid transmitting it to your partner by not having sex during periods when you notice symptoms and until any sores are completely healed and covered with new skin.Condoms offer some protection during the times when you are not experiencing symptoms, although it is possible that not all affected areas are covered by a condom.
If you suspect you may have herpes, discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider.
Join the Discussion
"I was recently diagnosed with genital herpes. I was shocked and appalled. The doctor said it looked like a second outbreak, however I can't seem to remember having the first. ...
... I was proud of being "disease" free and have always taken care of myself. I get tested for AIDS once a year with my Pap and except for this new boyfriend have always practiced safe sex. The doctor did tell me I could have gotten it from someone even if they were wearing a condom but I still accuse the new boyfriend.
Is there anyone else dealing with this disease who can help me with these feelings of depression? ... I really need help sorting all of this out."
CAPTIV8ING
Sources: US Herpes Cases on the Decline, National Health Information Center, http://www.healthfinder.gov/news/newsstory.asp?docid=534518, Accessed 4/30/07; STD Facts - Genital Herpes, CDC, http://www.cdc.gov/std/Herpes/STDFact-Herpes.htm, Accessed 4/30/07