Female Herpes Pregnancy:
Having female genital herpes should not stop you in any way from becoming pregnant and experiencing a healthy pregnancy and birthing experience. You will find many references in print and on the internet stating that female genital herpes can cause miscarriage and/or seriously harm or cause death in an infant. The majority of references to herpes and pregnancy will also state that a C-section is best for any pregnant woman with a genital herpes diagnosis.
In my opinion this is alarmist and simply not true.
The female symptoms of herpes can be so well controlled now by the antivirals (Zovirax, Famvir, Valtrex) and these medications are so readily available that any woman with genital herpes who desires to have a natural vaginal birth should be able to do so. It would be difficult to find an OB that would not be willing to prescribe a short term prescription of Valtrex (the most tested antiviral for pregnant women) for the few weeks preceding delivery.
Female Herpes and Delivery:
VERY IMPORTANT: The above information pertains to any woman who has been diagnosed with female genital herpes before becoming pregnant. It can be very dangerous to become infected with female genital herpes during pregnancy, especially in the final trimester. It is imperative you have these conversations with your Doctor before delivery.
The medical treatment of the symptoms of genital herpes have come so far for women that there is absolutely no reason that for a woman who has become infected with genital herpes prior to conceiving a child to have a normal and healthy vaginal birth. I myself have managed to conceive two healthy boys (the old fashioned way!), and delivered both naturally without a C-section.
You can always find more information at The Herpes Blog.
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