Tell your OB—even if outbreaks are rare
Many patients with genital herpes have healthy pregnancies and healthy babies. Tell Dr. Malik about past outbreaks, prior testing, and a partner’s herpes history so your care team can plan ahead.
A first infection late in pregnancy carries a higher newborn transmission risk than a longstanding infection.
Treatment and delivery planning
Acyclovir or valacyclovir may be used during pregnancy. For patients with recurrent genital herpes, daily suppressive treatment commonly starts at 36 weeks to reduce outbreaks near delivery.
At labor, tell your team about sores, burning, tingling, or pain that may signal an outbreak. Cesarean birth is generally recommended when genital lesions or warning symptoms are present. Without these findings, vaginal birth is often possible. Antivirals and cesarean birth reduce risk but do not eliminate it. CDC: Herpes in pregnancy
Reducing exposure
Avoid sexual contact during a partner’s outbreak. If you do not have herpes and your partner does, ask about pregnancy-specific precautions, especially in the third trimester.
After birth, people with cold sores should not kiss the baby. Wash hands before handling the baby and cover active lesions.
Frequently asked questions
Should I report a new sore right away?
Yes. New genital sores or a possible first infection need prompt evaluation.
Can I breastfeed?
Usually, if there are no breast lesions. Do not feed from an affected breast or use its expressed milk until cleared. The unaffected breast may be used if lesions elsewhere are fully covered. CDC: Herpes and breastfeeding
What newborn symptoms need urgent care?
Fever, poor feeding, unusual sleepiness, blisters, or seizures require immediate medical assessment.
Questions about your pregnancy? Contact Davie ObGyn in Davie, Florida, at 954-880-1010. New and established patients are welcome. This information supports your prenatal care and does not replace an individual medical assessment. For urgent symptoms, call your care team promptly; for an emergency, call 911. Do not use a routine online message for urgent symptoms.
Medically reviewed by Rahil Malik, MD, FACOG, board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist. Last reviewed: September 26, 2026. This page is general information and does not replace a visit with your doctor.