What is cervicitis?

Cervicitis is a condition wherein the cervix is irritated due to a certain number of various organisms. It can be classified as acute, which means the symptoms may appear sudden and severe or chronic; it means some symptoms may be present for several months or longer.

Acute cervicitis may be caused by a certain infections like herpes, Chlamydia and gonorrhea. This condition is usually confused with vaginitis.

Chronic cervicitis is common for women after giving birth. It is also related with pregnancy as well as the use of certain oral contraceptives, an increased blood supply into the cervix, which can be the result of the increased levels of the hormone. In addition, it is also considered as the caused of several chemicals like spermicides and the use of tampons and latex.

What are the symptoms of cervicitis?

Included in the typical symptoms of cirvicitis are the following. However, every individual can experience symptoms in a different way.

  • urinary problems
  • backache
  • pelvic pain
  • purulent discharge that contains pus

Given that infections into the vagina can be easily passed into the cervix, wherein that infected organism is harbored, the cervix’s tissue may become inflamed or develop cervical erosion or an open sore. The early symptom of this is vaginal discharge. Aside from that, as the cervical erosion deteriorate, cervical ulceration can develop as well.

Furthermore, the symptoms of this condition may be similar to other medical problems or condition. That is why it is very important to consult your gynecologist specialist that will provide an adequate diagnosis.

How is cervicitis diagnosed?

Apart from the complete physical examination, pelvic examination and medical history, some of the diagnostic procedures that the gynecology doctor may require the following test:

  • Pap Test – It is a test that collects a certain cells from the cervix and that cells are being examined into the microscope thoroughly. This test can determine, whether the cell is cancerous or not. It can also show if there’s an inflammation or infection.
  • Biopsy – a diagnostic procedure that can determine the tissues used from a certain part of the body which is also done in microscope to rule out if cancer or some abnormal cells exist.
  • culture of the cervical discharge

Treatment for cervicitis:

Particular treatment for this condition will be decided by the gynecologist doctor based on the following factors:

  • the patient’s overall health, age and medical history
  • the level of the disease
  • severity and type of symptoms
  • the patient’s tolerance for a particular procedures, medications and therapies
  • the expectations for the path of the disease
  • the patient’s preference and opinion

Treatment may include:

  • antibiotics (orally or injection)
  • cryosurgery – it is a new treatment, wherein it uses liquid nitrogen to freeze and eliminate abnormal cells without undergoing surgery procedure
  • silver nitrate
  • watchful waiting

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