Herpes and pregnancy - few questions

[Belle764]

I am eight months pregnant and just have a couple of questions about herpes and pregnancy….
Firstly, if there are no active outbreaks is a water birth considered ok? I have read conflicting advice on the internet with some sites stating it is not advisable to women with a history of HSV 2.
Also, if there are no active outbreaks, is perennial massage considered to be ok?
Thirdly, I intend on starting suppressive therapy in the next week but have just been wondering about a few twinges I’ve been experiencing in the vaginal area… my typical pattern in the past regarding outbreaks has been once or twice a year, with the text book prodome symptoms – tingling, itching the day before a blister appearing.
I have been very worried about herpes in this pregnancy because of the transmission risk and have found myself obsessing about it especially over the last two months and have been constantly fearing any kind of twinge or sensation to be an oncoming outbreak. I haven’t had a visible outbreak but often during the day I am aware of a sensation, or like a little twinge in the area which lasts a few seconds. Could this be indicative of a mild outbreak or viral shedding or can I assume because it hasn’t progressed any further it’s nothing to be concerned about.
Thank you for reading.

[Belle764]

Thank you for your reply. I know there are plenty of women who talk about giving birth naturally when there's no active outbreak and that is my preferred option. In the uk they do not offer c section unless there's an active outbreak and even then it is not standard. I guess I just was particularly interested in any experience with water birthing.

[Prizefighter]

You will get different opinions on her about herpes and child birth. Some say it is ok if you are on suppressive medication.  If I were in that situation, I would not risk it and I would have a c-section.  This is my opinion only.  You should follow your doctor's advice and talk to your partner about it.