Having a baby with herpes dangerous?

Herpes, whether it's herpes simplex or genital herpes, can indeed pose a risk to an expecting mother and her unborn baby. During pregnancy, the mother can transmit herpes to her baby in different ways:

1. During Pregnancy: If the mother has an active herpes infection during pregnancy, particularly during the last trimester, there is an increased risk of transmission to the baby. The risk is higher if the mother has a primary herpes infection (the first time she gets herpes) during pregnancy.

2. During Delivery: If the mother has an active herpes infection in the genital area at the time of delivery, it can transmit the infection to the baby passing through the birth canal. This is why cesarean delivery may be recommended in some cases to reduce the risk of transmission.

3. After Delivery: After birth, if the mother has active herpes lesions and comes in close contact with the newborn, there is a risk of transmitting the infection through touch or exposure to infected bodily fluids.

The effects of herpes infection in a newborn can be severe and potentially life-threatening. Neonatal herpes can cause complications such as skin, eye, and central nervous system infections. It's important for pregnant women to practice preventive measures, seek early prenatal care, and be open with their healthcare provider about their medical history, including herpes.