I've deleted the original post about the child with oral herpes, so just
a couple of comments. Usually herpes around the mouth is type 1 and
around the genital area is type 2, but there is not a big distinction
between the two. Either type can be anywhere. Probably the child has type
2, and the mother's breast has already been in contact with the lesions,
so it's too late to worry about cross-infection now. (Possibly a nipple
shield could be an option, but realistically the virus would be present
in the baby's mouth before the mother became aware of it). It would be
interesting to hear if this mother has developed any sores.
Regarding genital herpes at the time of delivery: the main risk of
transmission to the infant is if the woman has an initial episode at
delivery. With recurrent episodes the risk is much less, but C.Section is
usually perfomed to be on the safe side.

Lisa Amir
GP / IBCLC in Melbourne, Australia
My vote is against babies on waterbeds. Where do waterbeds fit into our
evolutionary heritage? (Says she who is feeling seasick just thinking of
sleeping on water!)