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
- Minor surgery to cauterize (hot
cautery) or freeze (cryo
cautery) the cervix (if a Pap smear is normal). This is often done
without anesthesia on an
outpatient basis and you can go back home in a few hours.
- Conization of the cervix or hysterectomy
(removal of the uterus), if a Pap smear is
not normal.
- Obtain medical treatment for any vaginal infection you may have.
- Use pads instead of tampons during menstruation.
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.
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