A cesarean section delivery is done to protect the newborn from getting a herpes simplex infection at birth. A mother can pass the herpes simplex virus to her newborn if she has a sore or blister present when the newborn passes through the vagina during a normal delivery. Cesarean section is also recommended if a woman has prodromal symptoms. A cesarean section delivery is done if a woman is ready to deliver and has blisters or sores due to a primary or recurrent outbreak of genital herpes. A cesarean section delivery is usually not done if a woman with recurrent genital herpes has blisters or sores that are on the thigh, buttocks, or another area that is not close to the vagina.

Common vaginal infections

Itchiness, soreness and a vaginal discharge can be signs of infection. However, it is quite normal and healthy for women of childbearing age to have a vaginal discharge. The quantity and color of this can change during the menstrual cycle, sexual excitement and pregnancy. An abnormal discharge, which is thick and white, green and foul smelling, or blood stained suggests possible infection.

Causes of infection

Thrush, bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, chlamydia and gonorrhoea are the most common causes of vaginal infection. Other infections include genital herpes and genital warts. Each of these is described below. A foreign body, such as a forgotten tampon, can also promote infection and cause an unpleasant discharge. In addition to a discharge, itchiness and soreness, other warning signs of an infection includes a fishy smell, painful intercourse, abdominal pains, redness, swelling, lumps, blisters, sore spots or ulceration of the vulva or anus, pain when passing urine.

Examination

To diagnose a vaginal infection, a doctor may need to examine the outer genital skin and the inner vaginal lining. An instrument called a speculum. The same as used for a smear test, is sometimes used. A sample of discharge may be taken using a swab, which looks like a long cotton bud. This is sent to a laboratory for analysis. Almost all women have the fungus Candida albicans growing harmlessly on and in their bodies. However, when it grows excessively, it causes thrush. Irritation and soreness of the vulva are the usual symptoms, sometimes but not always, accompanied by a thick, white vaginal discharge. If left untreated, the irritation can spread to the area between the buttocks. Passing urine and intercourse can be painful. Pregnancy, menstruation, diabetes, taking the pill, wearing tight underwear and antibiotics are all possible triggers of an attack of thrush.

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