Q: My 25 years old wife is pregnant. I think I have herpes infection. Occasionally I get some blisters or sores around my lips. I didn't check whether it's herpes or something else. My doctor prescribed me Aciclovir lip cream and also asked me not to worry. Can my wife and baby get infected with herpes infection though me? How do I prevent this?

A:Primary infection (first time infection) during the first half of the pregnancy can lead to fetal death, malformations, premature birth or low birth weight. While such an infection near delivery is very likely to lead to neonatal herpes. Therefore, if you have confirmed herpes and your spouse is free from it, then you must take all preventive measures; practice safe sex.