Sensitive - HSV2 herpes early pregnancy

[GL222]

Hi all. I hate even writing this because it makes me feel so ashamed! Just over a year ago I unfortunately caught HSV2 from my ex boyfriend. It was honestly the worst time of my life and I cried for like a month lol

Anyway. I am currently 6 weeks 3 days pregnant, I was taking acyclovir twice a day for months as a suppressant for the virus and haven't had an outbreak since the start of this year. However i found out a week ago I was pregnant and stopped taking the tablets immediately and now am currently having a painful outbreak! So upset.

Just want to ask is there anyone who has had experience with having this virus and being pregnant? I'm terrified of taking the acyclovir and my doctor said you czn take it in an outbreak but not daily. I just feel like I'm going to be having constant outbreaks if I don't take the tablets

I'm really worried about MC and I'm so emotional and worried constantly this is on my mind! Just want to hear if anyone has had any successful experiences and how the pregnancy went for you

Thanks x

Hey, congratulations on your pregnancy. Please don't feel ashamed, it's just one of those things which whilst uncomfortable and unpleasant can be managed in pregnancy. I took acyclovir from 36 weeks to prevent an outbreak, the main concern is if it is your first outbreak in pregnancy, which for you it isn't as you had your first a year ago when you caught it. I didn't take acyclovir early on, so can't comment on that side of things, but have heard of women taking it throughout. Best thing to do is speak with your midwife who may refer you to a consultant to discuss options.

Hi. Don't feel ashamed! There is stigma attached to herpes but in reality it is just a skin condition, no different from a coldsore on your lip. Most people who are positive for HSV1 and 2 don't even know!
I was told by a doc to take suppressants from week 36 as the only risk to baby is if you are having a flare during delivery or you are having your first ever outbreak. I was also told that acyclovir will not harm the baby.
I know outbreaks a not nice but they won't harm your baby during your pregnancy or cause a miscarriage so please don't worry about that (and no risk from alcylovir either as far as I've been told.)
Agree with PP to discuss with midwife.
Congratulations on your pregnancy x

I took acyclovir a couple of times in pregnancy. I took it for an outbreak early on and for the last few weeks with no problems. I was worried about having an outbreak and passing it on in labour but the meds suppressed any outbreaks. I'm sure I took it a couple of times a day so it's worth getting a second opinion, some doctors can be overcautious when it comes to pregnant women and medicines.

Please don't feel ashamed, it's a very common skin condition and none of the midwives or other HCPs involved in your care will bat an eyelid. The only time it would cause any problems is if you had sores when you go into labour so best to at least take a suppressive course later on.

Hey op! Please don't feel ashamed, it is what it is. I've been taking acyclovir twice a day throughout my pregnancy, now 31 weeks, midwife and doctors have said it's completely safe to take everyday. When I was researching there is a small field of research/thought that immune response to regular flare ups during pregnancy could be linked to autism (there is also the same train of thought linked to flu) so I just took it. Take the acyclovir and enjoy your pregnancy. I originally requested a ECS which has been accepted due to my worry around passing it onto baby but I've not had any symptoms my whole pregnancy so if it carries on like this I'll probably go for another vaginal birth.

Thank you so much! Made me feel abit better about the situation. Its tough and ly anxiety is through the roof ! X

Hey, Do not be ashamed on any level. Congratulations too. Take the acyclovir as directed by your GP.Being anxious will run you down so try and keep it in perspective. Wishing you well.

Thank you. Yes I am taking 400mg twice a day to calm my current outbreak down. I have my 8 week scan on new years eve so waiting for that - I think after the scan I will feel more relaxed than I do now. Thanks everyone for your comments 😊 x