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Vaginal warts

Sometimes, herpes are confused with vaginal warts. Vaginal warts are cauliflower-like growths that appear around the genitalia. They are caused by another virus, called the HPV virus. 

Effects of Herpes in Newborns

While few newborns are ever actually infected with the HSV virus before or at the time of birth, those that are can develop serious complications.

The herpes virus can affect the child's internal organs as well as central nervous system. If left untreated, the infection can prove to be fatal. For the small percentage of children that do survive, the virus can affect their eyes or lead to severe mental and developmental retardation.

Even a local infection of the skin, eyes or mucus membranes can lead to more serious complications if it is not treated.

Any newborn that is thought to be at risk of a HSV-2 infection should receive a herpes test 24 to 48 hours after his birth. If an infection is suspected or confirmed, intravenous treatment with acyclovir should begin right away.

The treatment can last between 10 and 21 days depending on the severity of the infection.

For more herpes information, visit Epigee.org.

Concerned about herpes? Visit our Pregnancy Complications forum to discuss the issue with other women.