Can a pregnant woman with herpes simplex keep the baby?

Nov 14, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

In general, whether a pregnant woman with herpes simplex can continue the pregnancy and retain the fetus depends on the timing and type of infection. Pregnant women should maintain good personal hygiene, avoid contact with individuals who have herpes, and minimize the risk of infection. If symptoms such as skin blisters or pain—suggestive of herpes—occur, medical attention should be sought immediately; self-medication is not recommended. A history of herpes should be disclosed to the doctor prior to delivery.

Generally, whether a pregnant woman with herpes simplex can continue the pregnancy and retain the fetus depends on the timing and type of infection. The details are as follows:

In early pregnancy, primary herpes simplex infection with obvious symptoms requires careful evaluation. At this stage, the virus may cross the placenta and affect the fetus, increasing the risk of fetal developmental abnormalities and miscarriage. Doctors should make a comprehensive assessment based on viral load, severity of symptoms, and prenatal examination results. In some cases, antiviral therapy under medical guidance may be necessary, along with close monitoring of fetal development to determine whether the pregnancy should continue.

Infections occurring in the second or third trimester, or a history of herpes simplex before pregnancy, typically allow the pregnancy to continue. By the later stages of pregnancy, the fetal organs are largely developed and the placental barrier reduces the impact of the virus on the fetus. In cases of recurrent infection, the mother usually has existing antibodies, which lowers the likelihood of transmitting the virus to the fetus. Safe antiviral medications can be used under medical supervision to control symptoms and reduce the risk of neonatal infection during delivery.

Pregnant women should maintain good personal hygiene, avoid contact with individuals who have active herpes lesions, and minimize the risk of infection. If symptoms such as skin blisters or pain appear, prompt medical attention is essential—self-medication should be avoided. A history of herpes should be disclosed to the healthcare provider before delivery. The doctor will decide on the appropriate mode of delivery based on whether there is an active outbreak at the time of labor, aiming to prevent transmission of the virus to the baby through the birth canal. Maintaining regular作息 (daily routines), boosting immunity, and reducing the frequency of herpes recurrences are also important during pregnancy.

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Does vigorous shaking affect the fetus?

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Can you eat pine nuts and pistachios during pregnancy?

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