Mortified and anxious - herpes - hand hold, please

[user1497254675]

Hello lovely people,

I am desperately hoping for some support and advice (as opposed to unsupportive comments) as I am very worried.

I am in my early 30's and am 23 weeks pregnant. I contracted herpes at the age of 19 whilst in a long term relationship, from a partner who was unaware of the risks of carrying. I had one, terrible initial breakout and, since, have had 2-3 minor breakouts a year. I have not received medication for these, as usually just one blister appears (and I don't have sex during this time).

I am happily married, but have never told my partner about this condition. I know people may say 'just' tell him, but I am so mortified and can't go through with doing so. I have woken this morning to a blister and am now petrified that I might have a flare up when due to give birth. I have read that the condition is more serious when women contract it for the first time during pregnancy (whereas I had my first breakout years ago), but that a C-section might be necessary if there are active blisters at the time of birth? I cannot tell my DH (or anyone else) about this and don't know what to do. Presumably, if I had an outbreak when due to give birth, a doctor or midwife would announce it without consent? I am mortified and very anxious. Does anyone have any experience of this? Advice and help would be much appreciated.

Thanks x

@User9067 you can get a prescription for anciclovir to take from 36 weeks to prevent an outbreak when you're due to give birth. I've got my prescription waiting for when I need it. My DH knows about it though, which makes it easier.

Hi I’m in the same situation! Really anxious , how did it go for you?

@New12 I went through 2 pregnancies being previously diagnosed with genital herpes. Seriously there is nothing to be ashamed of. Many people, especially men dont know they have it as often don't even get initial outbreak. For me first year or 2 was the worst, I contracted it in my 20s and now in 40s nearly forgot that I have it in my system, no outbreaks at all.

When it comes to pregnancies I was honest with my midwife, first pregnancy they put me on daily aciclovir from 36 weeks and with second, different hospital I was given drip of antibiotic when I went into labour. It was all preventative approach, didn't struggle much without breaks during pregnancy. Both girls were born vaginally and healthy. Now in my 3rd surprise pregnancy, still early on but I will get one of those treatments just in case.