What are the effects of herpes virus on the fetus?
Sep 02, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, herpes viruses may have various adverse effects on the fetus, mainly including fetal developmental abnormalities, increased risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, neonatal infection, and fetal organ damage. In addition, pregnant women infected with herpes viruses should undergo regular prenatal examinations and closely monitor fetal development to detect problems promptly and take appropriate measures.
Under normal circumstances, herpesviruses may have multiple adverse effects on the fetus, mainly including fetal developmental abnormalities, induction of miscarriage, causing preterm birth, neonatal infection, and damage to fetal organs. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Fetal Developmental Abnormalities
If a pregnant woman contracts a herpesvirus infection during pregnancy, the virus may cross the placental barrier and enter the fetal body, interfering with the normal growth and development process of the fetus. For example, it may affect the development of the fetal nervous system, potentially leading to delayed brain development, and may also negatively impact fetal eye development, resulting in ocular developmental abnormalities.
2. Induction of Miscarriage
Following herpesvirus infection, the virus may stimulate uterine contractions and disrupt the normal growth environment of the fetus within the uterus. When the infection is severe, the intrauterine environment may no longer support fetal growth, potentially leading to miscarriage. This effect is particularly evident during early pregnancy when fetal development is not yet stable.
3. Preterm Birth
After herpesvirus infection, the mother may experience a series of inflammatory responses, which could affect placental function, preventing it from adequately supplying nutrients and oxygen to the fetus. To cope with this adverse condition, the uterus may contract prematurely, leading to preterm birth. Preterm infants may face multiple issues after birth, such as respiratory and feeding difficulties.
4. Neonatal Infection
During passage through the birth canal, if the pregnant woman has an active herpesvirus infection, the newborn may easily come into contact with the virus and become infected. Infected newborns may develop symptoms such as skin blisters or oral herpes. In severe cases, the virus may invade the newborn's nervous system, respiratory system, and other organs, leading to more serious diseases and even threatening life.
5. Damage to Fetal Organs
Herpesviruses can reach various organs of the fetus through the circulatory system, causing damage. In addition to the nervous system and eyes mentioned above, the virus may also damage important fetal organs such as the heart and liver, affecting their normal structure and function, and potentially impacting the child's health long after birth.
In addition, pregnant women infected with herpesviruses should undergo regular prenatal checkups to closely monitor fetal development, enabling early detection of problems and timely intervention. At the same time, pregnant women should maintain good personal hygiene and avoid close contact with individuals infected with herpesviruses to reduce the risk of infection.
