Summary:
- In most cases, herpes does not affect fertility – although in rare cases it can
- The vast majority of women with herpes experience a successful pregnancy
- When herpes affects the fertility of men and women, it usually does so indirectly
If you’re thinking about starting a family, you might not be worried at first Herpes. But it’s a common question we hear at Daily Sparkz – Can herpes affect fertility??
Understand how herpes affects your body and when could Matter can help you make informed and safe decisions about your reproductive health. Read on to find out more.
Many sexually transmitted diseases 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: more commonly associated with genital herpes
Both types can affect the mouth or genitals and are usually transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. Many people with herpes have it no noticeable symptomsmeaning it’s possible to have the virus without realizing it.
Can herpes affect fertility?
In most cases Herpes does not affect fertility.
Unlike some sexually transmitted diseases such as Chlamydia or gonorrheaHerpes does not damage the reproductive organs or affect egg or sperm production. This means that conception is not usually prevented.
The good news is that most people experience herpes not have a direct impact on fertility. In fact, many people who book herpes tests with Daily Sparkz do so as part of proactive family planning. Over three quarters (77%) of our patients who book targeted herpes testing are under 35 years oldright in the best reproductive years.
In women
Herpes does not affect a woman’s ability to become pregnant. Unlike bacterial sexually transmitted diseases that can damage the fallopian tubes, herpes is site-specific, meaning it only affects the area where the infection originally contracted.
However, herpes can make conception difficult. Fear of passing on the infection or the discomfort caused by outbreaks can make unprotected sex problematic for some people. However, these problems can usually be solved by both partners learning about herpes and the infected person taking antiviral medication.
In men
Several Studies have shown that genital herpes infection can affect a man’s fertility and reduce the quantity and quality of sperm. Infection of semen 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 she has herpes before pregnancyThere is a very low risk of passing the virus to the baby. Herpes antibodies are passed on to the baby via the placenta.
However, if she has contracted the infection during pregnancyThe risk of transmission to the baby is higher because the mother has no pre-existing antibodies to pass on. There is also an increased risk of an outbreak during delivery. In this situation, a cesarean section may be necessary to protect the baby from the infection.
When should I get tested?
There is no “right” time to get a herpes test. It depends on your circumstances and your plans.
If you’re thinking about starting a family, give it a try before trying to get pregnant can be a sensible step.
It is also worth testing whether:
- 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 security
- You are already pregnant and have not yet been tested
Because herpes often causes no symptoms, testing can provide valuable reassurance. That’s also the reason why almost 60% of Daily Sparkz patients choose comprehensive multi-infection panels instead of a single testto ensure that nothing else is silently affecting their fertility or long-term health.
FAQs
Can you still get herpes if you use condoms every time?
Yes. Even when used correctly and consistently, herpes can be transmitted through uncovered skin, especially if a partner carries the virus without symptoms.
Is herpes only contagious when there are visible sores?
No. Due to asymptomatic shedding of the virus, herpes can be passed on even when there are no visible symptoms.
Should I get tested for herpes if I practice safe sex?
Many people choose to get tested for safety reasons, especially because herpes often causes no symptoms and is not always included in standard STI screenings.
Final thoughts
So, Can herpes affect fertility? For most people, no. But there are some cases where it is possible.
If you’re thinking about starting a family, comprehensive STI testing can provide clarity, reassurance, and peace of mind, helping you focus on what’s really important next.
Call our helpful team today to book an STI test at a clinic near you.
Don’t leave your sexual health to chance.
