Cervicitis is a pelvic inflammatory disease where the cervix may appear red and irritated. The cervix is the lowest part of the uterus that extends slightly into the vagina. Like any other tissue in the body, the cervix can get inflamed for various reasons. When such inflammation is observed in the cervix, it is referred to as cervicitis. Cervicitis is common and may be caused due to a number of factors like chemical or physical irritations, infections such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, and allergies.
Understanding Cervicitis Symptoms
Symptoms of cervicitis can be dormant or easily confused with some other pelvic inflammatory disease. It is generally identified to be present in patients only during professional checkups by medical staff, as the best hospitals for delivery and prenatal services carry out routine pelvic examinations before running a procedure.
While looking out for the symptoms, here are some common signs that can be easily spotted by the patient herself:
- Large quantities of abnormal vaginal discharge
- Bleeding between menstrual periods
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Frequent, painful urination
- Vaginal bleeding post-sexual Intercourse
In cases where it is visually noticeable, these irritated or infected tissues may become red, swollen, and secrete cervical discharge. They may also bleed easily upon touching.
Causes of Cervicitis
There are several causes for cervicitis, but stimuli of contact almost always cause it. However, it can happen to you for any of the following reasons:
- Some sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, genital herpes, trichomoniasis, mycoplasma, and ureaplasma.
- Allergic reactions to chemicals in spermicides, minerals in water, or to the latex rubber in condoms.
- Irritation or injury from tampons, pessaries, or from birth control devices like diaphragms.
- An overgrowth of bacteria that are normally present in the vagina (bacterial vaginosis) can be a cause of cervicitis.
- Hormonal imbalance, namely relatively low estrogen or high progesterone levels, may interfere with the body’s ability to maintain healthy cervical tissues.
- In certain cases, cancer, or undergoing cancer treatment might become a trigger for cervicitis.
How to Treat Cervicitis?
Since cervicitis is contagious, it can spread from one person to another during sexual contact.
The treatment options that are opted for by most doctors are:
- Includes antibiotics, to help treat the inflammation of the area and to subdue the allergic reaction.
- Treatment of the patient’s sexual partner(s) to stop this from happening again.
Importance of Routine Exams and Pelvic Exams
Regular pelvic exams and routine exams are crucial in identifying conditions like cervicitis early. These checkups help in detecting any abnormalities or infections that may lead to cervicitis, allowing for prompt treatment and reducing the high risk of complications such as the spread of infection to the fallopian tubes and other reproductive organs.
Ensuring proper health care and maintaining awareness of one’s sexual health can prevent the onset of cervicitis and other related conditions. Stay proactive and informed to safeguard your reproductive health.
As the best gynecologist hospital in Nagercoil, we adjust the course of our cervicitis treatment to each patient’s specific needs. So, if you seem to match any of the symptoms mentioned, book a consultation with one of the most esteemed gynecologists in Nagercoil, and let us give you a future of better health and wellness!