Genital herpes is an STD caused usually by HSV 2. In the United States, herpes is common. More than 1 out of every 6 people aged 14 to 49 years have genital herpes (CDC). Most people with genital herpes do not know they have it.
If a woman is pregnant with HSV, she can pass it to the fetus during birth. The fetus comes in contact with the virus while is passes through the birth canal. If you contract the virus for the first time during pregnancy, you are more likely to pass it to your unborn child. However, you can still pass the virus even if you already have it. But, the risk is much lower. There is some research that suggests that genital herpes infection may lead to miscarriage, or could make it more likely for a woman to deliver her baby too early.
If you have sores or warning signs of an outbreak at the time of delivery, it may be essential to have a cesarean delivery to reduce chance of infection. The decision depends on many factors, including where the sores are on one’s body and whether the fetus would come into contact with them during delivery.
Stop by any of our clinics to get a herpes STD test. Most people with genital herpes do not know they have it.
No appointment is necessary at our clinics and you’ll only wait minutes to be seen. You can call ahead at (917) 310-3371 and let us know you’re on the way or you can check in online.
