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Not Just a Cold Sore: Postpartum Herpes Simplex Virus Endometritis
Olivia Moore1, Jesse Cottrell1
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine Medical Center Drive, Huntington, West Virginia, USA.
Case Reports in Obstetrics and Gynecology
|June 15, 2026
Summary
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) can cause postpartum endometritis, a rare but serious condition. Early diagnosis and antiviral treatment are crucial for improving outcomes in mothers and newborns.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Infectious Diseases
- Neonatology
Background:
- Endometritis is a common cause of maternal and neonatal morbidity after delivery.
- Bacterial infections are the typical cause of endometritis.
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a rare but significant pathogen in postpartum endometritis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the rare occurrence of HSV in postpartum endometritis.
- To emphasize the importance of considering HSV in treatment-resistant cases.
- To advocate for prompt diagnosis and early antiviral therapy.
Main Methods:
- Case review of postpartum endometritis unresponsive to standard treatment.
- Diagnostic workup including viral identification.
- Initiation of antiviral therapy.
Main Results:
- Identification of HSV as the causative agent in specific endometritis cases.
- Demonstration of clinical improvement following antiviral treatment.
- Prevention of neonatal complications through maternal treatment.
Conclusions:
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) endometritis requires specific diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
- Early antiviral intervention is critical for successful management of HSV endometritis.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment improve maternal and neonatal outcomes in rare HSV cases.
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