Cervical Erosion

WHAT IS CERVICAL EROSION?

A condition in which the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium) spreads to cover the tip of the cervix. This abnormally placed tissue is more likely to become inflamed or infected than the normal covering. It is not cancerous.

CAN AFFECT

Adolescent and adult females.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

  • Usually no symptoms.
  • Increased mucus discharge from the vagina (sometimes).
  • Unexplained vaginal bleeding (sometimes).
  • Dyspareunia (sometimes).

CAUSES

Usually unknown but may accompany pregnancy, childbirth or the use of oral contraceptives.

RISK INCREASES WITH

  • Stress.
  • Repeated vaginal infections.

HOW TO PREVENT

Cannot be prevented at present.

DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES

  • Medical history and physical exam including pelvic examination by a doctor.
  • Pap smear.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

  • Occasionally progresses to pre cancerous stage and then cancer of the cervix.
  • Infection spreads to urinary bladder leading to urinary tract infection.

PROBABLE OUTCOME

Disorder is usually curable with treatment. Allow 3 months for the cervix to return completely to normal. Cervical erosion is known to frequently recur.

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

MEDICATION

Your doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics, topical antibiotics or vaginal tablets for cervical erosion.

ACTIVITY

After treatment (except following a hysterectomy), normal activity and sexual relations may be resumed immediately.

CALL YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY, IF

  • You have symptoms of cervical erosion.
  • The following occurs after treatment:
    • Increased discharge.
    • Painful intercourse or bleeding afterward.
    • Vaginal bleeding between periods.
  • New, unexplained symptoms develop.