Summary:
- In most cases, herpes does not affect fertility – but in rare cases, it can
- The vast majority of women who have herpes go on to have successful pregnancies
- When herpes affects male and female fertility, it usually does so in indirect ways
When you start thinking about starting a family, you may not be worried at first Herpes. But it’s a common question we hear at Better2Know – can herpes affect fertility?
Understanding how herpes affects your body and when power topic, can help you make informed, confident decisions about your reproductive health. Continue reading to learn more.
Many STDs can affect your fertility.
What is herpes?
Herpes is a common viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two main types:
- HSV-1: often associated with oral herpes (cold sores)
- HSV-2: most often associated with genital herpes
Both types can affect the mouth or genitals and are usually spread through skin-to-skin contact. Many people with herpes have without obvious symptomswhich means you may have the virus without realizing it.
Can herpes affect fertility?
In most cases, Herpes does not affect fertility.
Unlike some STDs like Chlamydia or GonorrheaHerpes does not damage the reproductive organs or interfere with the production of eggs or sperm. This means that it usually does not prevent conception.
The good news is that, for most people, herpes it doesn’t directly affect fertility. In fact, many people who book a herpes test on Better2Know do so as part of preventive family planning. Over three quarters (77%) of our patients who book targeted herpes tests are under 35right in the prime reproductive years.
To women
Herpes does not affect a woman’s ability to get pregnant. Unlike bacterial STDs that can damage the fallopian tubes, herpes is site-specific, meaning it only affects the area where the infection first took hold.
However, herpes can make conception difficult. The fear of spreading the infection, or the discomfort caused by outbreaks, can make unprotected sex problematic for some people. However, these issues can usually be resolved by educating both partners about herpes and by the infected party taking antiviral medication.
To men
Several studies have shown that a genital herpes infection can affect a man’s fertility by reducing the quantity and quality of sperm. Infection of sperm with HSV can reduce sperm count, motility, and volume.
Can a herpes infection affect a pregnancy?
This depends on whether the woman got the infection before or after pregnancy.
If he got herpes before pregnancythere is a very low risk of passing the virus to the baby. Herpes antibodies are passed to the baby through the placenta.
However, if he was affected by the infection during pregnancythe risk of passing it on to the baby is higher as the mother will not have pre-existing antibodies to pass on. There will also be a greater risk of outbreaks during childbirth. In this case, a caesarean section may be necessary to protect the baby from infection.
When should I take the exam?
There is no single “right” time to get tested for Herpes. It depends on your circumstances and what you are planning.
If you’re thinking of starting a family, give it a try before trying to conceive it might be a logical step.
Also worth a try if:
- You or your partner have had new or multiple sexual partners
- You have noticed symptoms such as sores, blisters or unexplained irritation
- You are planning a pregnancy and want confirmation
- You are already pregnant and have not had a test in the past
Because herpes often causes no symptoms, getting tested can provide valuable peace of mind. That’s almost why 60% of Better2Know patients choose comprehensive multi-infection panels over a single testmaking sure nothing else is quietly affecting their fertility or long-term health.
Frequently asked questions
Can you still get herpes if you use condoms every time?
Yes. Even with proper and consistent use, herpes can be spread through exposed skin, particularly if a partner carries the virus without symptoms.
Is herpes contagious only when there are visible sores?
No. Herpes can be transmitted even when there are no visible symptoms due to asymptomatic virus shedding.
Should I get tested for herpes if I have safer sex?
Many people choose to get tested for cold sores, especially since herpes often causes no symptoms and is not always included in standard STD screens.
Final thoughts
So, can herpes affect fertility? For most, no. But there are some cases where it can.
If you’re thinking about starting a family, comprehensive STD screening can provide clarity, reassurance and peace of mind, helping you focus on what really matters next.
Call our helpful team today to book an STD test at a clinic near you.
Don’t leave your sexual health to chance.
