Cervicitis

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Infectious CervicitisCDC PHIL6495

Cervicitis is an inflammation of the cervix, the lower, narrow end of the uterus that opens into the vagina. Cervicitis can be caused by a number of infections, including those transmitted through sexual contact such as Chlamydia and Gonorrhea, as well as other types of infections that are not sexually transmitted. Symptoms of cervicitis can include vaginal discharge, bleeding between periods or after sexual intercourse, and pelvic pain. However, many women do not experience any symptoms, which can lead to the condition going undiagnosed and untreated.

Causes

Cervicitis is most commonly caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like Chlamydia and Gonorrhea. Other causes can include Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), Human Papillomavirus (HPV), and bacterial overgrowth such as bacterial vaginosis. Non-infectious causes can include allergies to chemical irritants such as spermicides or latex in condoms, and physical irritation from intrauterine devices (IUDs) or tampons.

Symptoms

Symptoms of cervicitis may include:

• Abnormal vaginal discharge that may be yellow or green in color and have a foul smell
• Vaginal bleeding between periods or after intercourse
• Pain during intercourse
• Pelvic pain
• A burning sensation during urination

It's important to note that many women with cervicitis do not experience any symptoms. Regular gynecological exams are crucial for early detection and treatment.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cervicitis involves a physical examination, including a pelvic exam, during which a healthcare provider may notice redness, swelling, or discharge from the cervix. Laboratory tests, such as swabs from the cervix, can be used to detect specific infections like Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, or HPV.

Treatment

Treatment for cervicitis depends on the underlying cause. If cervicitis is caused by an STI, antibiotics or antiviral medications may be prescribed. It's important for sexual partners to be treated simultaneously to prevent reinfection. For non-infectious causes, avoiding the irritant or changing the behavior that caused the irritation may be recommended.

Prevention

Preventive measures for cervicitis include practicing safe sex by using condoms, limiting the number of sexual partners, and undergoing regular STI screenings. Vaccination against HPV can also help prevent cervicitis caused by HPV infections.

Complications

If left untreated, cervicitis can lead to serious complications, including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can cause infertility or ectopic pregnancy. It can also increase the risk of contracting HIV if exposed to the virus.