15360 Cervicitis

Overview

Cervicitis is inflammation (swelling and irritation) of the cervix — the narrow, lower end of the womb that opens into the vagina. It is not cancer and often causes no symptoms, but it can cause unusual discharge or pain.

Yes, cervicitis is fairly common. Many women and people with a cervix have it at some point, though it often goes unnoticed.

It can affect anyone with a cervix, especially those in their teens to 40s who are sexually active. It can also appear after menopause.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• No symptoms at all
• Unusual vaginal discharge that may be watery, cloudy, or have a strong smell
• Bleeding between periods or after sex
• Pain during sex
• Pain or burning when urinating
• Heavy feeling or discomfort in the lower belly

Symptoms in children

• Cervicitis is rare in children. If it happens, it may show as vaginal discharge, itching, or discomfort. Any such symptoms should be checked by a doctor.

Symptoms in older adults

• After menopause, the cervix can become thin, dry, and easily irritated. This can cause light bleeding, discharge, or soreness.

Causes

Main causes

• Infections passed during sex (like chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, or trichomoniasis)
• Overgrowth of normal vaginal bacteria (bacterial vaginosis)
• Irritation from soaps, sprays, tampons, or condoms (non-infectious cervicitis)

Risk factors

• New or multiple sexual partners
• Unprotected sex
• Previous sexually transmitted infection
• Douching or using perfumed products in the vagina
• Weakened immune system

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• See a doctor the same day if you have pelvic pain, unusual discharge, or bleeding after sex.
• Also get same-day help if you have fever, chills, or pain during urination.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you notice any change in discharge, pain during sex, or bleeding between periods, book an appointment.
• If you have a new partner or want a sexual health check-up, a routine appointment is a good time.

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and sexual health, then examine you. They will use a small tool called a speculum to look at your cervix. This is quick and usually not painful.

Tests that may be done

• Swabs from the cervix or vagina to check for infections
• Urine test (for some infections)
• Cervical screening (Pap smear) if it is due

What to expect at your appointment

You might feel some discomfort during the exam. Swab results can take a few days. Your doctor may start treatment before results come back if they suspect an infection.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause. If an infection is found, it is usually treated with antibiotics or antiviral medicine. Sexual partners may also need treatment to avoid passing the infection back. If an irritant is causing it, avoiding that product usually helps.

Self-care at home

• Avoid douching, scented soaps, and perfumed hygiene products
• Wear cotton underwear and avoid tight clothing to keep the area dry
• Use gentle, unscented soap and water

Medical treatments

For infections, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics or antiviral medication. Take the full course exactly as directed, even if you feel better. Your partner may be treated too. For an allergic irritation, a steroid cream may be suggested. Never share or use someone else's medicine.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not a usual treatment for cervicitis. In rare cases, if there are small abnormal areas on the cervix, a doctor may discuss other procedures.

Living with this condition

During treatment, avoid sexual activity until your doctor says it is safe. Finish all medication and go to follow-up tests to make sure the infection is gone.

Lifestyle tips

• Use condoms to lower the risk of sexually transmitted infections
• Limit sexual partners and talk openly with them about sexual health
• Avoid vaginal douching and strongly scented products

Diet and exercise

Eating well and staying active support your immune system. This helps your body fight off infections. Drink plenty of water.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

A diagnosis of cervicitis can bring worry or embarrassment. It is a common, treatable medical condition and nothing to be ashamed of. Talk to your doctor or a counsellor if you feel anxious.

Prevention

You can lower your risk by practising safer sex, using condoms, and having regular sexual health check-ups. Avoid douching or using perfumed products in the genital area.

Vaccines

Vaccines that protect against certain viruses such as human papillomavirus (HPV) are offered in many countries, but they do not directly prevent cervicitis. Ask your doctor about immunisations recommended for you.

Screening programmes

Regular cervical screening (smear tests) can find changes in the cervix before they become a problem. It is also a chance to test for some infections.

Complications

If left untreated

• Pelvic inflammatory disease (infection that spreads to the womb and fallopian tubes)
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Difficulty becoming pregnant (infertility)
• Higher risk of ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the womb)
• Increased chance of catching HIV if exposed

Long-term outlook

With proper treatment, most cases of cervicitis resolve completely. Even if it comes back, it can be managed. Untreated infections can cause lasting damage, so seeing a doctor and finishing treatment gives you the best chance of a full recovery.

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