Cervicitis: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of cervicitis?

Cervicitis is inflammation of the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. The condition can be acute or chronic and is often caused by an infection, although non-infectious causes can also lead to cervicitis. Symptoms of cervicitis can vary but may include:

1. Vaginal discharge: An abnormal discharge from the vagina that may be thin or thick, clear or cloudy, and may have a strong odor.
2. Pain or discomfort: Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia), pelvic pain, or pain during urination (dysuria) can occur.
3. Bleeding: Abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially after intercourse, between periods, or after menopause.
4. Increased urinary frequency: A frequent need to urinate, which may be accompanied by pain or discomfort.
5. Vaginal irritation: Itching, redness, or swelling of the vaginal area.
6. Spotting: Light bleeding that is not part of a regular menstrual period.
7. Pain in the lower abdomen: Discomfort or cramping in the lower abdomen.

It’s important to note that cervicitis may not always cause symptoms, especially in cases of chronic cervicitis or when the condition is mild. Additionally, some symptoms of cervicitis, such as vaginal discharge or bleeding, can also occur due to other conditions, so it’s important to see a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment if you experience any of these symptoms.

What are the causes of cervicitis?

Cervicitis is most commonly caused by infections, although non-infectious factors can also contribute to the inflammation. Common causes of cervicitis include:

1. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Bacterial STIs such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, as well as viral STIs such as herpes simplex virus (HSV) and human papillomavirus (HPV), can cause cervicitis.
2. Non-sexually transmitted infections: Infections such as bacterial vaginosis (BV), trichomoniasis, and yeast infections (Candida) can also lead to cervicitis.
3. Chemical irritants: Exposure to certain chemicals, such as those found in douches, spermicides, or contraceptive creams, can irritate the cervix and lead to inflammation.
4. Allergic reactions: Allergies to latex condoms, spermicides, or other products used during intercourse can cause cervicitis in some cases.
5. Foreign bodies: Objects left in the vagina, such as a forgotten tampon or contraceptive device, can cause irritation and inflammation of the cervix.
6. Cervical trauma: Trauma to the cervix, such as during childbirth, a pelvic exam, or vigorous sexual activity, can lead to cervicitis.
7. Hormonal changes: Changes in hormone levels, such as those that occur during pregnancy, menopause, or the menstrual cycle, can affect the health of the cervix and increase the risk of cervicitis.
8. Immune system suppression: Conditions or medications that suppress the immune system, such as HIV/AIDS or corticosteroids, can increase the risk of cervicitis.

It’s important to note that some cases of cervicitis may not have an identifiable cause, especially in cases of chronic cervicitis.

What is the treatment for cervicitis?

Treatment for cervicitis depends on the underlying cause of the inflammation. Common treatment approaches include:

1. Antibiotics: If cervicitis is caused by a bacterial infection, such as chlamydia or gonorrhea, antibiotics are typically prescribed to clear the infection. It’s important to take the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if symptoms improve.
2. Antiviral medications: For cervicitis caused by viral infections, such as herpes simplex virus (HSV) or human papillomavirus (HPV), antiviral medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.
3. Antifungal medications: If cervicitis is caused by a yeast infection (Candida), antifungal medications, such as fluconazole, may be prescribed to clear the infection.
4. Avoidance of irritants: If cervicitis is caused by exposure to irritants, such as douches, spermicides, or certain chemicals, avoiding these irritants can help reduce inflammation.
5. Hormonal therapy: In some cases, hormonal therapy may be recommended to help regulate hormone levels and reduce inflammation of the cervix, especially in cases of cervicitis related to hormonal changes.
6. Cryotherapy or cauterization: For certain types of cervicitis, such as those caused by cervical ectropion (the presence of glandular cells on the outer surface of the cervix), procedures such as cryotherapy or cauterization may be recommended to remove affected tissue and reduce inflammation.
7. Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may be recommended to help manage pain and discomfort associated with cervicitis.
8. Follow-up testing: After completing treatment, follow-up testing may be recommended to ensure that the infection has cleared and to monitor for recurrence.

It’s important to see a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment if you suspect you have cervicitis. Untreated cervicitis can lead to complications, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or infertility, so prompt treatment is important.