Hi...
I'm currently 20wks pregnant with my first child. The pregnancy was unexpected but nonetheless, I'm excited and anxiously waiting the baby's arrival. I'm nervous and scared as well. About 5 yrs ago, I had a scare with possibly being infected with HSV1, genital type. Never had an outbreak and tested negative. I consider myself blessed and would like to think I don't have it but now that I'm pregnant I'm concerned about it. I've read that it's possible to have the virus without an outbreak occurring, even if I tested negative. I've talked with my drs about this before and they didn't have any concern. They're thoughts were that I don't have it as far as they're concerned and unless I ever have an outbreak, I shouldn't worry about it either. So, I haven't worried about it or mentioned that experience to anyone for that matter, until now. I talked with my OB about it. She says not to worry, and that it sounds like I'm in the clear. She also said that if I do have it and an outbreak happens, we'll worry about it at 36 weeks and then possibly do a C-section at delivery. Ok so here is my issue... My boyfriend knows nothing about this and quite frankly, I'd like to keep it that way for a few reasons. One being that I may not have it and do not want to open that can of worms, and second reason being that this would not be taken lightly and may put me in a situation where we break up over it. I get the whole being open and honest value, and that if he cares enough for me and this child then he'll be understanding about it but the reality is that chances are it will go bad and I'm not in a position to battle this right now, not until after the baby is born. So, I'm choosing to stay quiet. My fear is that when I go into labor, the doctor or nurses will ask about it while he is there. So here is my question: what are my rights under HIPAA Law and can I ask my OB to keep this confidential when I go into labor? Do I have that right, for the sake of it causing problems? Thank you in advance for a response...