Cold sore lip - frequent manifestation of the herpes virus during pregnancy, mainly in the first half of it.
The aggravation of the process and the spread of the rash to other parts of the body is an indication for immediate seeking help from a specialist.
Content
- Why does herpes occur during pregnancy?
- Is herpes on the lips dangerous for a child?
- How to treat an expectant mother?
- Prevention
Why does herpes occur during pregnancy?
The herpes simplex virus is present in the blood of the vast majority of the adult population of the planet. In a healthy, strong person, he is in a dormant state, and is activated under favorable conditions for him, the main of which is a decrease in immunity and the protective functions of the body.
Pregnancy is a period in a woman's life, which is characterized by changes in the work of the whole body, and, in particular, of the immune system.
The following factors can provoke a rash of herpes on the lips during pregnancy in a woman:
- hormonal disbalance;
- overwork due to prolonged physical or emotional stress;
- frequent colds;
- exacerbation of chronic diseases;
- hypothermia or overheating;
- smoking, drinking alcohol;
- nervous tension, stressful situations, emotional experiences;
- taking certain medications;
- deficiency of vitamins in the body.
Is herpes on the lips dangerous for a child?
Primary herpesvirus infection poses a particular threat to the health of the mother and child. At whatever stage of pregnancy a woman becomes infected, there is always a risk of unpleasant consequences for the baby.
The most dangerous for the baby is the infection of the mother in the early stages of pregnancy. The virus quickly spreads throughout the body through the bloodstream and is most likely to penetrate the fetus through the placenta. The consequence of such an infection can be a spontaneous abortion.
In the 2nd trimester, the virus can cause abnormalities in the formation of the internal organs and systems of the baby: damage to the central nervous system, serious brain disorders, pathologies of hearing and vision, physical development.
A severe form of herpes on the lips in pregnant women in the third trimester can provoke labor ahead of schedule, cause deep damage to the fetus and its fading.
Secondary herpes is practically safe for the child, since antibodies against the causative agent of the disease already exist in the mother's blood.
Video from Dr. Malysheva:
How to treat an expectant mother?
Treatment of herpes on the lips during pregnancy must be carried out under the supervision and control of a gynecologist. Lack of therapy or independent attempts to get rid of the infection can have serious consequences, harm the health of the woman and the unborn child.
If a pregnant woman has herpes and the affected area is small (several pimples on the lips), the treatment method consists in the following complex administration of drugs:
| Action | Examples of drugs |
|---|---|
| Multivitamin preparations for expectant mothers | Elevit Pronatal, Complivit mom, Pregnavit, Femibion, Vitrum prenatal |
| Antiviral drugs based on interferon in the form of nasal drops or rectal suppositories | Viferon, Interferon alpha, Laferon |
| Antiviral drugs for topical use (herpes ointment) | Gerpevir, Zovirax, Atsik, Acyclovir |
| Softening crusts and healing damaged tissue | Baby cream, liquid vitamin E, petroleum jelly |
| Prevention of further spread of rashes with antiviral effect. | Oxolinic ointment, Virolex. |
| Therapy for exacerbation of chronic diseases. | Depending on the disease |
Tablets and intravenous injections are allowed as a last resort only in the 3rd trimester; in the early stages, drugs can penetrate the placenta and harm the fetus.
Multiple rashes that spread to other areas of the face and body require hospital treatment. The question of taking orally or intramuscularly medications is decided by the attending physician individually, taking into account all the risks and possible complications for the mother and baby.
Prevention
Before planning a pregnancy, all women are advised to be tested for the presence of antibodies to herpesvirus in their blood. With a positive result, the risk of infection is significantly reduced, even in case of infection, the disease will proceed easily and without complications.
Preventive measures to reduce the likelihood of developing herpes on the lips during pregnancy:
- Exclude contact with persons with visible signs of the disease.
- Avoid crowded public places.
- Observe the rules of personal hygiene, do not use other people's towels, bath accessories, dishes.
- Do not have sexual relations with little-known suspicious persons, have one sexual partner.
- After walking on the street, contact with people, travel in public transport, wash your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap.
- If the virus may get on the skin, treat these areas of the body with antiseptic solutions.
A pregnant woman should carefully and responsibly treat her condition, since the health of her baby depends on it. If a cold popped up on the lips of the expectant mother, treatment should be started as early as possible, after consulting with the attending physician.
The site is for informational purposes only. Do not under any circumstances self-medicate. If you find you have any symptoms of illness, contact your doctor.