Cervicitis overview
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
|
Cervicitis Microchapters |
|
Diagnosis |
|---|
|
Treatment |
|
Case Studies |
|
Cervicitis overview On the Web |
|
American Roentgen Ray Society Images of Cervicitis overview |
Overview
Inflammation of the tissues of the cervix is known as cervicitis. Cervicitis in women has many features in common with urethritis in men and many of the causes are sexually transmitted.
Causes
Cervicitis can be caused by any of a number of infections, of which the most common are chlamydia and gonorrhea, with chlamydia accounting for approximately 40% of cases. Trichomonas vaginalis and herpes simplex are less common causes of cervicitis. Non-infectious causes of cervicitis can include intrauterine devices, contraceptive diaphragms, and allergic reactions to spermicides or latex condoms.
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms
Mucopurulent cervicitis often is asymptomatic, but some women have an abnormal vaginal discharge and vaginal bleeding (e.g., after sexual intercourse).
Treatment
Medical Therapy
Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and others. Drugs called antivirals may be used to treat herpes infections. Hormonal therapy (with estrogen or progesterone) may be used in women who have reached menopause (postmenopausal). When these treatments have not worked or when cervicitis has been present for a long time, treatment may include cryosurgery (freezing), electrocauterization, or laser therapy.