Can Genital Herpes Virus pass on to the baby when giving birth?

I found out my daughter had Herpes while I was with her in the hospital. She had a newborn son and I don't know anything about it and was wondering if it can be transmitted to the baby. Also I need to know how to cope in my shock. She never told me and still denies that she has it - I questioned her at the hospital but didn't want to upset her since she was in there having a baby.
I found out when the anethesiologist asked her what meds she was taking. She named one and he asked her if she had genital or oral. I came home and researched the medication and it was for Herpres. How can I help her as well as adjust? Is the baby in danger?

First of all as a mother I understand your concern but I have to say unless she is a minor, it is none of your business and she does not owe you an explanation. Hard to hear but true. She probaby discussed this with her OB prior to giving birth. And the Dr. probably knew anyways because they have to test for STDs. The biggest risks to the baby (if she had an outbreak while birthing) would be to the babys eyes and throat. The eyes were probably well protected due to the vernix and the eye ointment the dr.s put on the immediately after birth. However I am sure the baby is fine. The risks are minimal and farely rare as well. (My sister had the same issue) If the baby is more that 2 wks old and showing no signs he is doing well. Just for your peace of mind, the baby has to get a 2wk checkup, then a 2 month for shots and so on. During the 1st yr of life the baby will be getting regular visits to the pediatrican. Relax.
If your daughter wants to talk to you about it she will. Otherwise leave it alone. If you push it you will only further alientate her and dause resentment towards you. STD's are embarrising enough to deal with, let alone letting the people you love know that you have one. As far as your shock I understand. That is your baby girl, but you have to remember she is an adult (I am assuming), and she has her own life and decisions to reckon with. Don't pry, let it be. Imagine how hard this must be along with the stress of motherhood. (remember your partner doesn't have to have lesions to get it.....she was prob also shocked and upset to learn that she had contacted it.)
Just say sweety, if you want to talk to me about anything I am here for you. If not thats ok too, just remember when you are ready I'll be here.
Congrats on the new granchild! Source(s): MOM x 2
Sister dealt with the situation your daughter did.
I also have had an STD
I also have a naturally concerned mother....but it she comes off as pushy, nosy and insensitive, despite her best inentions.
Delicate situation

If there are active genital sores at the time of birth, the virus can be given to the baby. Otherwise it is unlikely.
here is a great link or you
jan
http://www.ask.com/web?q=herpes&qsrc=0&o...
It can be transmitted if she has an active case, which often the stress of childbirth will cause a flare up. But, generally if the doctor is aware of the history, they will scrape the cervex to find out if there is an active case at the time, if there is they will do a c section. Your daughter probably did not inform you because she was concerned about your reaction and that you may judge her. Stress can be the culprit to her having flare ups, so be careful not panic about this, you could hurt her more than help her.
first and foremost, i totally disagree with amber. it is your business b/c you're a concerned and loving father and yes it can be passed on during childbirth. i'm sorry to hear that your daughter doesn't feel comfortable enough to talk to you about this, but contracting herpes is more common than people realize, but too ashamed to admit. what can be challenging is that it can lie dormant for many years without ever having an outbreak. i don't know how to deal with the baby being in danger; you'll have to consult your doctor about that specifically, but how can you help her adjust? don't make her feel worse than she already does about not divulging this critical information to you. she's embarrassed and ashamed enough b/c her secret has been exposed. if she still doesn't feel comfortable enough to open up or come out of denial, buy this product for her that's a natural remedy for herpes: h balm. it can be purchased at www.fonoils.com. she'll save money on the prescriptions that she's been taking and her outbreaks, if any, will appear less often. maybe that'll be the icebreaker you need to get her to open up. just tell her you were doing some research online and thought she might like to give it a try. that'll show that you're concerned and truly want to help.