Primary herpes simplex virus type 1 gingivostomatitis during the second and third trimester of pregnancy: foetal and pregnancy outcome

Primary herpetic gingivostomatitis during pregnancy is a relatively rare phenomenon with no clear management guidelines. We describe 4 cases of primary herpetic gingivostomatitis during pregnancy and review the literature. The diagnosis in all cases was based on clinical manifestations and serology and culture findings. Two of the women received intravenous rehydration. Acyclovir, offered in 2 cases, was refused. Delivery was normal in all 4 cases, with good neonatal outcome, similar to findings in the literature (6 cases). Herpetic gingivostomatitis in the second and third trimester of pregnancy does not appear to be associated with adverse foetal effects. More data are needed to define the risk of this infection during pregnancy.