I am pregnant. if i have hsv1 antibodies why would my doctor prescribe antivirals?

To protect the baby: Your doctor may be concerned that the herpes virus could affect your baby when you deliver. If you have hsv1 antibodies you have been exposed to the herpes virus at some point. Taking antivirals is a good way to lessen the chance of viral shedding and infecting the baby at the time of birth.

Not ypical : About 80-90% of people have hsv 1 antibodies. This is different from hsv 2 (genital herpes). Unless you had evidence of a genital hsv 1 infection (possible but rare) then antivirals would not typically be prescribed. For those with a history of genital herpes then antivirals are usually started around 35-36 weeks for prevention.