Blisters known as cold sores, frequently manifest themselves in and around the mouth. The herpes simplex virus is to blame for these outbreaks. Many people are carriers but rarely get cold sores. It is not uncommon for pregnant women to have cold sores for the first time after years of immunity.
Herpes is not limited to affecting the vaginal area (see Genital herpes below)
Often experienced by pregnant women, cold sores are not known to harm the developing baby. However, cold sores are bothersome and can spread germs, so it's best to get them treated as soon as possible.
Lysine capsules are commonly used for the treatment and prevention of cold sores. There is a dearth of human follow-up data, especially in pregnancy, to back up the use of lysine for this purpose, and what evidence it is weak. Nonetheless, there are no known safety concerns during pregnancy or when breastfeeding.
Patches with a local effect but no active component are another forms of treatment. This has the added benefit of concealing the cold sore and is also safe to use.
Inquire about the specific names of these drugs from your midwife, doctor, or pharmacist. Having a cold sore when breastfeeding
Medusa Lip balm and cold sore prevention.
Infection with herpes during birth might be fatal for the infant. Due to the high prevalence of cold sores during pregnancy and the immediate postpartum period, prompt treatment is essential to prevent the spread of the virus to the newborn. It is generally accepted that using tablets is safe for nursing mothers. However, pills may be more appropriate than creams in the case of outbreaks of severity level
For guidance on other specific medications, please call your naturopath or GP to speak about it. There is minimal safety evidence to support other comparable, over-the-counter medications.
To avoid spreading the herpes virus that causes cold sores, you must practice strict hygiene. Covering the cold sore, not kissing your infant if you have cold sores, not contacting the cold sores with your hands, and thoroughly cleaning your hands before touching your baby are all suitable precautions to take. If your child comes into touch with anyone else who has a cold sore, they, too, must take precautions to prevent the spread of the herpes virus.
Pregnant women who have genital herpes should get treatment to reduce the risk of passing the infection to their unborn child. When this happens, it is usually because of transmission in the womb. The risk of transmission to the unborn child is most significant in the case of a primary infection (one acquired for the first time during pregnancy). Herpes transmission is less common in women who experience frequent outbreaks. This is because the antibodies against the virus have had more time to build in women who experience recurrent outbreaks. Babies receive some protection from these antibodies since they are carried across the placenta.
Your obstetrician, primary care physician, and midwife should all be aware if you have ever had herpes or are experiencing your first infection during pregnancy. Medications are sometimes used to prevent the spread of in pregnant women. If the mother has genital herpes and the infection is new during the last six weeks of pregnancy, a cesarean section is typically recommended.