Herpes outbreak? 33 weeks pregnant

[Teapot32]

Hi all nc for obvious reasons.

went to a&e today with sever itching down below. Apparently it’s red and inflamed and there is “leasions” (unsure of spelling). I’m to pregnant to see what’s going on. Lips on face are also abit swollen and have white textured patches on them. No pain in face, or below when weeing etc. just the itch,

I thought it was dermatitis- hospital think it could be herpes and have referred me to sexual health clinic. Never had this before and hoping it isn’t.

been with dh for 4 years and haven’t been unfaithful. Have no reason to suspect he has either. I know it can lay dormant for a long time but it’s been 6 years since I had slept with anyone who wasn’t dh. How do I approach this with him? I’m really not knowledgeable on the subject so can anyone offer any advice please?

Feeling irritated and abit hopeless.

thank you 💜

Op herpes is incredibly common and likely under reported, lots of sufferers don’t even realise they have it. Some have it and the sores are minimal and are out down to a scratch or spot. The first outbreak tends to be the worst and they are less severe after that.
Sone people have several outbreaks, some just a few and some never again.
Sores down there aren’t necessarily herpes but can be thrush, dermatitis or even friction from itching.
Tell your DH that you need another examination and if it does turn out to be herpes have lots of info to hand when you explain
Heroes doesn’t mean a vaginal birth is out of he question- you will just have to have a plan with your midwife. Either way you will be fine

Hey, midwife here. First of all we don't know it is herpes yet, there are other things that can look like it. And even if it is please don't feel embarrassed, we do see this often. It's a viral infection people can pick up, it's not a judgment on you. I'd say it's more common then you think.

Your baby is well protected during pregnancy from flare ups. They can give you antiviral medication to suppress the virus. Acyclovir is used for herpes and chicken pox and won't be harmful to baby either The real risk can be when there is an active infection and a vaginal birth, and baby can get exposed to the virus. However you still have a number of weeks to go, and hopefully with antivirals you will be able to have a vaginal birth. If there is an active case they will recommend a section.

I hope you get answers and can enjoy the rest of your pregnancy. Just view it as a viral infection that you've got treated, that is all it is.

This is rubbish.

So much bad advice on here but luckily so much good advice as well. I hope everything goes well for you.

How are you doing @Teapot32 ?