Genital Herpes

Herpes Advocacy Sheet

The herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2),or genital herpes is most common in women who are infected by a male partner. Herpes (type 1 and 2) in general affects around 45 million people in the U.S. It is estimated that many women with herpes are not aware of it because they do not experience symptoms.

Top Tips for Pregnant Women with Herpes Simplex Virus

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) impacts 40 percent of women across the U.S. Pregnant women with herpes can transmit the virus to the skin, eyes, brain or central nervous system of their newborn. Herpes virus can cause blindness, disability and death. It is very important that adequate screening and treatment is considered throughout the pregnancy. Neonatal infection can occur in the uterus during pregnancy or during delivery, passing through the birth canal (vagina).

Midwife & leading women’s health expert, Elizabeth Stein CNM, MSN, MPH of Ask Your Midwife (http://www.AskYourMidwife.com), sheds light on this infection and explains what pregnant women with herpes can do to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy and birth.