Can you protect baby from HSV 2 after delivery?

[newpage11]

I was diagnosed with HSV 2 over 17 years ago and am expecting my first child in 4 months.  I've worried about this moment for 17years!  I've had outbreaks on and off through the years.  I've also used Valtrex and herbal remedies during this time.  Both treatments have been successful.  My OBGYN told me the baby is building antibodies while in the womb, the risk for transmission is less than 1% during delivery and precautions would be taken. I plan on starting Valtrex at 36 weeks twice a day until delivery and maybe after.  I'll start taking it earlier if outbreaks become more frequent before 36weeks.  However - I'm also concerned about transmitting the virus to the baby once we're home.  I've had outbreaks on my arms and small "scratches" or split skin on cuticle of fingers that I suspect are a form of herpes (according to my former herbalist).  My OBGYN said that outbreaks on other body parts is RARE.  She asked if it was actually diagnosed as herpes or was I assuming....I don't feel most doctors are as knowledgable about herpes as they think.  My research over the years has shown me that alot of people have outbreaks on their bodies in places other than the genitals.  My question is what measures should I take to clearly diagnosis what appears to be herpes occassionaly on my arms and hands?  See a dermatologist?  An infectious disease doctor?  Also - Should I just stay on Valtrex until the baby is at least 6 months old and in less danger if herpes is passed from me?

If I have to wear gloves and long sleeves for six months to keep the baby safe I will!  I just want to be sure of what is and what isn't herpes on my skin.  I would be devasted if the baby became ill because I passed herpes along and it could have been prevented.

Thanks in advance for your response.

[gracefromHHP]

the vast majority of people don't have food triggers. odds really are this is something else going on.  you wouldn't have a herpes recurrence on 2 completely different dermatones like that either.  

[newpage11]

Thanks for your response.  I had an OB, so I believe, on both arms and ankle on Sunday.  I think it was triggered  by chocolate in ice cream which I don't normally eat...I made appointment with a dermatoligist but can't get in until Thursday.  Started taking Valtrex because of the multiple locations and it seems to be going away fairly quickly.  I guess too late for culture this time but at least I'll have someone to call for an appointment next time.  

Maybe it's not herpes.  The red bumps typically look like misquito bites.  They never blister up or contain fluid but they do itch.  It would be great if it was just some type of rash or food allergy.  Either way I'm prepared.

I'll let you know the results when I finally get a test done in time.

Thanks

[gracefromHHP]

it's not likely you have herpes on your hands and arms also. Your obgyn was spot on, your herbalist was wrong to diagnose you as those being due to herpes. you should've been sent out for proper testing when you had symptoms.  Nothing you can do unless you get a return of the symptoms on your arms and hands - be seen within 48 hours of their appearance for an exam and lesion culture and typing. It's very unlikely they are due to herpes.  

grace