Herpes simplex virus 2 and its relationship with congenital infections in pregnant women at the Jipijapa Canton Health Center

Abstract

Herpes simplex type 2 (HSV-2) is a sexually transmitted viral infection that typically causes genital herpes. It leads to painful blisters that may recur over time. Most infected individuals exhibit mild or no symptoms. This infection can also occur during pregnancy and be transmitted to the fetus. The objective of the research was to determine the presence of HSV-2 and its relationship with congenital infections in pregnant women at Jipijapa Canton Health Center. The study employed an observational, descriptive, cross-sectional, prospective methodology, involving a total of 197 pregnant women. The results showed that 41.1% of pregnant women were between 19 and 24 years old, and 66.5% were diagnosed during their second trimester of pregnancy. Furthermore, the risk factors associated with pregnancy trimesters indicated that the majority did not present significant complications. While, positive cases of Herpes 2 immunoglobulin G during the first trimester was 22.7% (n = 15), while in the second trimester it was 10.7% (n = 14), and for positive cases of Herpes 2 Immunoglobulin M in the first trimester were 6.1% (n = 4), while in the second trimester 6.1% (n = 8). The study concluded that comprehensive prenatal care is important that considers not only medical aspects, but also social and environmental factors that can affect maternal and child health.