If a couple has herpes what are the chances of passing it to an unborn child?

Herpes : Zero chance while the baby is in the uterus. Herpes is caught from direct skin exposure to an infected patch of skin. Your partner's OB will ask all kinds of questions but if she has herpes type two in the vagina then a discussion about medication and possible c-section will ensue. What is missing from your question is what type of herpes are you asking about?

50 50: Probably 50 50 chance. This is why baby is delivered C-section many times.

Varies: The highest risk to newborns occurs during a primary (1st) outbreak around the time of delivery. That baby can pick up the germ from the birth canal or during delivery.Outcome can be fatal.Those with recurrent outbreaks have less risk (below 10%) but it is possible.Many women have elective c-section prior to labor to avoid any risk.