Pregnancy complicated with genital herpes
Release time : 04/20/2025 09:30:01
Genital herpes, also known as genital herpes, is a sexually transmitted disease caused by the herpes simplex virus. It has a highly contagious nature and accounts for 70% to 90% of cases through sexual contact. It can lead to female infertility, miscarriage, or premature birth, and even death in newborns. Pregnancy complications associated with genital herpes are particularly sensitive to the mother's health status because the condition of the mother directly affects the fetus. The contagiousness of pregnancy complications associated with genital herpes is very strong. If pregnant women have this condition, they must pay close attention. Below, we will introduce this disease to you through our mother-webpedia encyclopedia.
Genital herpes, also known as anogenital herpes, is a sexually transmitted disease caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus and primarily spread through sexual organ contact. The patient and asymptomatic carriers are the main sources of infection.
Herpes simplex virus type I and II can both cause human infections.
Type I is known as the pharyngeal or upper body type, accounting for 10%. It causes herpes in the upper body skin, mucous membrane, or organs, such as oral herpes and encephalitis caused by herpes.
Type II is also called genital type, accounting for 90%, which causes skin eruptions on the genitals, anus and lower abdomen. It is mainly transmitted by sexual contact, with young women being more susceptible, and pregnant women can transmit it to their fetuses through vertical transmission.
Many people might say, "I am very virtuous and only have sexual relations with my partner. So I don't think I should be infected with this disease."
MomNet has revealed that this is not the case. Viruses can also spread through other means, such as entering damaged skin or mucous membranes, potentially infecting humans. In certain special circumstances, even a slight lack of personal protection may lead to infection, so everyone should not take it lightly.
How to Detect and Diagnose a Pregnancy-Related Genital Herpes Infection? Here are five points summarized by MomNet for reference, and detailed information can be consulted with a doctor. 1. **Physical Examination**: The doctor will carefully observe the lesions in the vulva, vagina, and cervix, looking for typical symptoms of genital herpes, such as erythema, blisters, or ulcers. 2. **Laboratory Tests**: By collecting secretions or cell samples for testing, it is possible to confirm if the infection is caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus type I (HSV-1) or II (HSV-2). 3. **Virus Culture**: Under laboratory conditions, placing the sample in a specific culture medium allows for the observation of the growth of the virus, thereby determining whether it is a herpes virus. 4. **Molecular Biology Tests**: Using PCR (polymerase chain reaction) technology, DNA from the sample is extracted and amplified to detect specific DNA fragments, thereby identifying the presence of the virus. 5. **Immunological Tests**: Use antibody detection methods, such as ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay), to detect antibodies against the herpes virus in the body. If you suspect an infection with pregnancy-related genital herpes, seek medical attention as soon as possible and follow the doctor's advice for appropriate examinations and treatment.
(1) The herpes virus was isolated from the vesicular fluid.
(2) The aqueous fluid and saliva are inoculated into human embryonic fibroblast cells or rabbit kidney cell, and the culture is carried out for 48 hours to make a judgment. Immunofluorescence technique can be used to confirm it.
(3) Under the Giemsa staining of the vesicle base, under a light microscope, it is observed that the spindles are loosened and there are several nuclear gas-filled cells and eosinophilic nucleolar inclusions.
(4) PCR technology was used to amplify the DNA of herpes simplex virus, which is reliable for diagnosis.
(5) Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) detects specific IgG and IgM in the serum of pregnant women and neonatal umbilical cord blood. A positive result for specific IgM in the umbilical cord blood suggests intrauterine infection.
Symptoms of genital herpes during pregnancy: Due to the lack of understanding of the condition by many people, it is often that those who are ill do not know. So, MomNet briefly introduces the main symptoms of genital herpes during pregnancy for all expectant mothers. Please judge whether you have these symptoms.
1. The initial form of infection, characterized by acute onset, is primarily transmitted through sexual intercourse.
Following a 2 to 7-day incubation period, sudden onset of symptoms is observed, accompanied by severe pain in the vulva that can affect urination and walking. Examination reveals multiple, symmetrical superficial ulcers on the vulva with herpetic vesicles forming on the epidermis. After 10 days, the condition enters a recovery phase, where the ulcers dry up and scab over, eventually leading to full healing without scarring or hardening. This type of disease course typically lasts for 4 weeks or longer.
2. Reactivated genital herpes in pregnant women often presents with recurrent vulvar herpes before pregnancy, as well as cases of herpes during early pregnancy, which are all instances of the virus being latent within the body and being activated by pregnancy. Commonly, there are 2 to 3 vesicles or blisters on the vulva, and the course of the disease is short, lasting approximately one week and naturally healing without treatment.
If a pregnant woman has contracted the herpes virus in early pregnancy (within the first three months of pregnancy) and shows symptoms, she may have an increased risk of miscarriage or stillbirth.
If a pregnant woman contracts the herpes virus in the last three months of pregnancy, it can be transmitted to the fetus, making newborns susceptible to neonatal herpes and often leading to death.
Treatment of Genital Herpes during Pregnancy: Genital herpes, a condition characterized by its high transmissibility, significant harm, and high recurrence rate, currently lacks an effective treatment method. However, it is not necessary for everyone to be overly anxious; as long as they actively cooperate with the doctor's treatment, they can generally successfully give birth to their babies. There are generally the following treatment methods: 1. **Antiviral medication**: This is the most commonly used treatment approach, which aims to inhibit the replication of the virus to achieve therapeutic effects. 2. **Immunomodulators**: For example, interferons, can enhance the body's immunity, helping the body resist the virus. 3. **Local treatments**: Including topical ointments and irrigants, directly targeting the affected area, reducing the number of viruses. 4. **Psychological support**: Due to the special nature of the disease, patients may feel anxious and fearful, so providing good psychological support is also very important. 5. **Regular check-ups**: During the treatment period, regular follow-ups are required to ensure that the condition is effectively controlled and to prevent relapse. In summary, although the treatment of genital herpes during pregnancy has certain challenges, as long as one actively cooperates with the doctor's treatment, they can generally successfully bring healthy babies into the world.
1. General treatment (1) The primary focus is on maintaining the patient's skin in a clean, dry state, as well as preserving the integrity of the blister wall.
Daily use of saline solution for cleaning the affected area.
(2) For pregnant women with bacterial infections, antibiotic ointments (such as gentamicin ointment) can be applied to the affected area.
For pregnant women with significant local pain, applying 5% Lidocaine Hydrochloride Cream can alleviate the discomfort.
2. Clinical research has shown that in pregnant women with genital herpes, the use of acyclovir during pregnancy results in minimal effects on both the fetus and neonates.
Generally, pregnant women with illnesses should take acyclovir orally at a dose of 4-5 times daily for 7-10 days.
For patients with severe conditions, intravenous injections may be administered every 8 hours for a period of 7 to 10 days.
For pregnant women with infection in the late stages of pregnancy, in addition to using antiviral drugs (acyclovir), cesarean section should be performed during delivery to reduce the chance of the virus being passed on to the fetus during vaginal delivery.
The above are Western medicine treatments, commonly used Chinese herbal external washes or topical treatments can alleviate the pain and symptoms of genital herpes. Combining internal treatment with external treatment can improve therapeutic efficacy. Here are some commonly used traditional Chinese medicine prescriptions: (1) Matricaria chamomilla 30g, Chrysanthemum indicum 30g, Phellodendron amurense 30g, decocted into about 200mL for external washing, twice daily, each time for 15 minutes of application.
(2) 30g of Eupatorium Herb and 30g of Isatis root are decocted into 200mL of decoction. It is used for external washing twice a day, each time for 30 minutes.
(3) Dissolve 100g of mirabilite in 300mL of boiling water, cool and then apply externally to the affected area.
(4) Take an appropriate amount of fresh Hedyotis diffusa, wash it clean, crush it into a paste and apply it to the affected area. Cover it with gauze, change the dressing once or twice a day.
Take an appropriate amount of Qing Dai powder, add sesame oil to make a paste, apply it on the affected area, and change it once every day.
Prevention and care for congenital genital herpes during pregnancy: Understanding the causes of congenital genital herpes can lead to targeted prevention strategies. Here, we will share methods for prevention and care.
I. Prevention: 1. Avoid unclean sexual intercourse and improper sexual relations, and patients with active genital herpes should absolutely not engage in sexual intercourse with anyone. 2. During treatment, abstain from sexual activity, and if necessary, the partner should also undergo examination. 3. Care for local injuries should include maintaining cleanliness and dryness to prevent secondary infections. 4. After recovery or relapse, pay attention to prevent factors such as catching a cold, exposure to cold weather, or fatigue that may trigger recurrence.
II. Nursing (1) It is essential to prevent infection, especially during the summer when temperatures are high and sweating is common, combined with scratching, which can easily lead to localized infections. Daily cleaning of the sexual area with clean water is necessary.
(2) When local infection occurs, timely use disinfectant to clean the area.
The commonly used 3% boric acid water is 200 ml, which can be used to wash the affected area. It can also be used as follows: add one piece of ethanolic extract of Coptis chinensis into 200 ml boiling water, cool it down and then clean the affected area with it.
Secondly, avoid scratching locally and do not use irritating drugs that are too strong.
After contracting a disease, it is important to pay attention to preventing colds and catching a chill, as well as to reduce recurrence by minimizing overexertion. During treatment, abstain from sexual activity.
The medical information provided in this text is for reference only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice.
If you experience discomfort, it is advisable to seek medical attention immediately. The diagnosis and treatment should be based on the professional medical evaluation in person.