Surrogacy is an arrangement in which a woman carries and delivers a child for another individual or couple. This process involves medical screenings, legal contracts, and various emotional considerations. One of the factors that can complicate the surrogacy process is herpes, a common viral infection that can be transmitted through sexual contact or skin-to-skin contact.
In this article, we will discuss whether someone with herpes can be a surrogate mother and what precautions need to be taken before proceeding with their surrogacy journey.
Understanding Herpes
Herpes are sexually transmitted infections caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two types of HSV – type 1 and type 2. While both types can cause both oral and genital herpes, type 1 typically causes oral herpes (cold sores) and type 2 typically causes genital herpes. However, either type can be transmitted to any part of the body through skin-to-skin contact.
Symptoms of genital herpes include painful blisters or ulcers on the genitals or anus, burning or itching sensations in the affected area, and flu-like symptoms such as fever and swollen lymph nodes. Oral herpes may also cause similar symptoms around the mouth or on the lips.
Can Someone with Herpes Be a Surrogate Mother?
The short answer is yes, someone with herpes can be a surrogate mother. However, there are some important factors to consider before proceeding with surrogate pregnancy.
Firstly, it is crucial to disclose any history of herpes to both the intended parents and the medical professionals involved in the surrogacy process. This includes disclosing whether you have had a previous outbreak, how often outbreaks occur, and what type of herpes you have.
Secondly, your doctor may recommend that you take antiviral medication to help reduce the risk of transmitting herpes during pregnancy. It is important to follow their advice and take all necessary precautions for the health and safety of both yourself and the baby.
Thirdly, if you are actively experiencing an outbreak or have recently had one, it is not recommended to proceed with surrogacy until the infection has cleared up completely. This is to minimize the risk of transmission to the baby and ensure a healthy pregnancy.
Lastly, it is important to have an open and honest conversation with the intended parents about being a herpes surrogate mother and how it may affect the surrogacy process. This can help establish trust and ensure everyone involved is on the same page.
Surrogate Health Requirements
In addition to disclosing any history of herpes, surrogates must meet a range of health requirements before being approved for the surrogacy process. These typically include maintaining a healthy BMI to reduce the risk of pregnancy complications, being a non-smoker to ensure optimal health for both the surrogate and the baby, and having a history of uncomplicated previous pregnancies and deliveries to demonstrate the ability to carry a pregnancy safely.
Other requirements may also involve being free from substance abuse, having no significant medical conditions, and undergoing thorough physical and mental health evaluations to confirm fitness for the surrogacy journey.
Communicate Your Health with a Doctor
If you have herpes, it is essential to communicate this openly with your doctor. They will ensure the condition is effectively managed and poses no risks to the pregnancy or the baby. This may involve antiviral medications to prevent outbreaks, regular check-ups to monitor the health of both the surrogate and the baby, and careful planning for the delivery to reduce the risk of transmission. Your healthcare provider will work closely with you throughout the pregnancy to address any concerns and ensure a safe and successful outcome.
Becoming a Surrogate with Herpes
If you have herpes and are interested in becoming a surrogate mother, it is important to work closely with your doctor and the intended parents to ensure a safe and successful surrogacy journey.
Some additional steps you can take include:
- Having regular check-ups and screenings to monitor the herpes infection during pregnancy
- Maintaining good personal hygiene to reduce the risk of outbreaks
- Avoiding sexual activity during an active outbreak or if you experience any symptoms
- Following all recommended medical advice and precautions for a healthy pregnancy.
Precautions during Pregnancy
If you do choose to proceed with surrogacy as someone with herpes, there are precautions that need to be taken throughout the pregnancy. This includes regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor for any potential complications related to herpes. Your doctor may also recommend additional testing or monitoring during pregnancy.
It is also important to continue taking any prescribed medication as directed by your doctor to help reduce the risk of transmission to the baby. You may also need to avoid certain activities or behaviors, such as sexual activity with your partner, during pregnancy to protect both yourself and the baby.
Fertility Clinics for Surrogates with Herpes
- Reproductive Medical Associates of New Jersey (RMANJ)
- Shady Grove Fertility
- CCRM – Center for Assisted Reproduction
- Conceptions Reproductive Associates of Colorado
- HRC Fertility Clinics
It is important to do your research and choose a fertility clinic that has experience and expertise in working with surrogates who have herpes. These clinics can help provide the necessary support and care throughout the surrogacy journey. Remember, you are not alone, and there are resources available to help guide you through this process.
Frequently Asked Can You Be a Surrogate Mother With Herpes Questions
Can a baby be born with herpes if the surrogate mother has the infection?
Yes, there is a risk of transmission during pregnancy or delivery, especially if the surrogate experiences an outbreak during this time.
Are there any risks to the baby if a surrogate has herpes?
If proper precautions are taken and monitored closely by medical professionals, the risk of complications for the baby is minimal. However, it is important to follow all recommended guidelines and precautions to ensure a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
Can someone with herpes still breastfeed as a surrogate mother?
It is generally not recommended for someone with an active outbreak of oral or genital herpes to breastfeed. If you have had previous outbreaks but are not currently experiencing any symptoms, it is best to consult with your doctor before making a decision about breastfeeding as a surrogate mother.
Will surrogacy agencies reject a female for having herpes?
This ultimately depends on the policies and requirements of each individual surrogacy agency. Some agencies may have stricter guidelines for surrogates with herpes, while others may be more open to working with them. It is important to research and communicate openly with potential agencies about your herpes status before making any decisions.
Can I be surrogate if I have gestational diabetes?
Each surrogacy journey is unique, and the decision to proceed with a surrogate mother who has gestational diabetes will depend on various factors, including individual health history and any complications that may arise during pregnancy. It is essential to discuss this with your doctor and the intended parents before making a decision about pursuing surrogacy.
Can I be a surrogate with HIV?
Being HIV positive does not automatically disqualify you from becoming a surrogate, but it is essential to work closely with your doctor and the intended parents to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy. Additional precautions may need to be taken throughout your journey to become an HIV positive surrogate mother.
Conclusion
In conclusion, someone with herpes can still become a surrogate mother, but it is important to take all necessary precautions and openly communicate about the infection throughout the process. Working closely with medical professionals and the intended parents can help ensure a safe and successful surrogacy journey for both the surrogate and the baby. So, if you are thinking of becoming a surrogate mother with herpes, make sure to discuss your options thoroughly with your doctor and potential agencies before making any decisions.
Remember, having herpes does not define you or your ability to help another family through surrogacy. With proper care and precautions, you can still have a fulfilling experience as a surrogate mother. Always prioritize your health and well-being.
