Herpes can present significant risks during pregnancy, especially when it comes to transmission to the baby during childbirth. Genital herpes, caused by the herpes simplex viruses (HSV-1 and HSV-2), can be transmitted to the newborn in cases of active infection outbreaks.
In this article, we will discuss the risks associated with herpes transmission to the baby during pregnancy and the crucial role that healthcare professionals play in preventing neonatal infection.
Genital Herpes and Pregnancy
Genital herpes is a chronic viral infection that affects millions of people worldwide. When a pregnant woman is infected with the herpes simplex virus, there is a risk of transmission to the baby during vaginal delivery.
Most women who have had genital herpes before pregnancy have antibodies that can help protect the baby against infection. However, if the mother has an active outbreak of genital herpes at the time of delivery, the chances of transmission to the baby increase significantly.
Risks of Herpes Transmission to the Baby
Transmission of herpes to the baby during childbirth can lead to serious complications. The risk of infection is higher when the mother acquires genital herpes for the first time during pregnancy, especially near the time of delivery. The risks include:
- Cutaneous infection: The herpes virus can cause severe skin lesions in the newborn, resulting in blisters, ulcers, and scarring. These lesions can be localized or spread to various parts of the body.
- Central nervous system infection: In more severe cases, the herpes virus can infect the baby’s central nervous system, causing meningitis, encephalitis, and permanent neurological damage.
- Disseminated infection: In rare situations, the virus can spread throughout the newborn’s body, causing severe infections in various organs.
Medical Care for Prevention of Herpes Transmission during Childbirth
Healthcare professionals play a crucial role in preventing herpes transmission to the baby during childbirth. Here are some measures that can be taken:
- Medical history evaluation: During prenatal consultations, it is essential for pregnant women to disclose their history of genital herpes. This allows doctors to assess the risk of transmission and take necessary precautions.
- Education and counseling: Doctors should provide detailed information to pregnant women about genital herpes, its associated risks, and preventive measures that can be taken to reduce transmission to the baby.
- Active outbreak monitoring: Pregnant women with a history of genital herpes should be closely monitored during pregnancy to identify active outbreaks. The doctor may recommend laboratory tests to detect the presence of the virus and monitor viral activity levels.
- Use of antiviral medications: In some cases, the doctor may prescribe antiviral medications, such as acyclovir, to suppress outbreaks of genital herpes during pregnancy. This antiviral therapy can reduce the frequency and severity of active outbreaks, thereby decreasing the risk of transmission to the baby.
- Decision on the delivery method: When a woman with genital herpes has an active outbreak close to the time of delivery, the doctor may recommend a cesarean section. A cesarean section is considered a safer option as it significantly reduces the risk of virus transmission to the baby, as direct contact with active lesions is avoided.
- Neonatal monitoring: After delivery, the newborn of a mother with genital herpes should be carefully monitored for signs of infection. The doctor may perform exams and laboratory tests to check for the presence of the virus. If necessary, the baby may receive antiviral treatment to prevent or treat a possible infection.
Sumary
Transmission of herpes to the baby during childbirth is a serious concern, but there are preventive measures that can be taken to reduce the risk. It is essential that pregnant women with a history of genital herpes receive proper medical care during pregnancy. Healthcare professionals play a crucial role in educating, counseling, and making appropriate decisions to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and the baby.
It is important to emphasize that each case is unique, and decisions regarding the delivery method and antiviral treatments should be individualized, taking into account the mother’s medical history, the presence of active outbreaks, and other relevant factors.
With proper medical care and the adoption of appropriate preventive measures, it is possible to significantly reduce the risk of herpes transmission to the baby during childbirth, ensuring a healthy start to the newborn’s life.
Also read: The myths about herpes
