Herpes during pregnancy

Acyclovir - what is it?

Preparations containing the active ingredient acyclovir are antiviral drugs that inhibit the multiplication of herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 (HSV), chickenpox and herpes zoster virus (VZV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and cytomegalovirus (CMV). The preparations are often available in tablet form over the counter and in higher dosages by prescription.

Can Acyclovir be used during pregnancy?

The active ingredient acyclovir is recognized by the FDA as a category B drug. This means that these drugs have not caused any harmful effects to animals. There are no studies on pregnant women, so the medication can be considered safe for pregnant women. However, it should be taken after consulting a doctor. Expectant mothers are also often recommended to use acyclovir creams, which act locally and can be applied at the first appearance of symptoms such as itching or burning.

Herpes in pregnancy - what is the risk?

Herpes during pregnancy can have serious consequences. Recurrence of lip herpes is harmless, but more dangerous for the development of pregnancy are primary herpes infections - the first appearance of lesions. The appearance of lesions on the genitals, called genital herpes, is also dangerous for the health of the baby. The infection can occur in the womb or during natural childbirth. Symptoms of herpes in newborns include widespread skin lesions, inflammation of the brain or liver, and even death in the worst cases. In addition, genital herpes in pregnancy can lead to miscarriage or premature birth. For this reason, the implementation of treatment is extremely important so that the pregnancy proceeds properly and the baby does not develop infectious complications.