Everything You Need To Know About Herpes

Herpes is brought by two types of viruses: herpes simplex type 1 and 2. The most unique thing with the virus is that only one in five people show signs of infection. Due to this many people don't know that they have been infected. Signs of Herpes Infection It's good to note that the signs of infection usually show during the first outbreak. This is a period between 2 days and 2 weeks. If you are infected you will have tingling and itchy sensations on your genitalia.

The glands in the groin may become swollen and sensitive and if you aren't knowledgeable enough you may think that you are having flu. You can also have pains in your nerves near the developing blisters. It's also common for blisters and small blisters to appear in genital areas. The blisters last for 24-48 hours, after which they burst leaving you with small, red and painful sores. The sores usually heal after 3-10 days. Other signs include painful urination. Women may have vaginal discharge and they may occasionally be unable to empty their bladders. 

Read More »

Herpes and Pregnancy - How to Safeguard Your Unborn Baby

Herpes and pregnancy can occur at the same time. In fact 20% to 25% of pregnant women worldwide have genital herpes - some are active and some are asymptomatic.

Although the mothers-to-be are not at risk, the unborn baby may be in danger.

The degree of risk the baby faces is dependent on three major factors: 

The herpes infection timeline.

Whether antibodies are present in the mother-to-be.

Whether there has been enough time for antibodies to develop in the baby before the onset of labor.

Let me explain:

As a result of a herpes primary infection, the system produces antibodies to the particular type of virus involved.

If a woman contracts herpes, approximately six weeks after the primary outbreak the resultant antibodies in her system will prevent infection of an additional form of her particular HSV infection.

What's more important regarding herpes and pregnancy, after six to nine weeks, the baby will acquire antibodies via the placenta.

Once that has happened, it is extremely difficult for cross infection to occur while the infant is still in the womb. It also makes it unlikely that the baby will become infected if the mother happens to be in the viral shedding stage during birth.

Read More »