Cervical erosion is a gynecological condition where columnar cells replace squamous cells on the cervix, causing redness and inflammation. It is not cancerous and is usually easily treated by addressing the cause. Causes include pregnancy, chemical exposure, trauma, and infection. Regular pelvic exams are important to catch any potential infections early. Safe sex practices and regular checkups can reduce the risk of developing this condition.
Cervical erosion is a gynecological condition in which the squamous cells that normally cover the surface of the cervix are replaced with columnar cells from within the cervical canal. These cells appear red and inflamed, but they aren’t cancerous, and the cervix itself doesn’t literally erode away. Generally, this condition is very easy to treat, as it usually resolves on its own once the cause of the abnormal cell growth has been addressed.
Many people with cervical erosion experience no symptoms and learn about the condition during a routine pelvic exam. Sometimes, it is accompanied by abnormal bleeding or vaginal discharge. The problem with this condition is that because the columnar cells don’t belong on the surface of the cervix, they can sometimes become infected, which is why routine pelvic exams are important, as they allow doctors to catch such conditions early.
There are four potential primary causes for cervical erosion: pregnancy, chemical exposure, trauma, and infection. Pregnancy and the use of hormonal contraceptives appear to be linked to the condition due to changes in the body’s hormonal balance. Chemicals such as spermicide, some lubricants, and some douches can also irritate the surface of the cervix, causing this problem. Infections such as herpes, chlamydia, gonorrhea and pelvic inflammatory disease are also linked to cervical erosion, as are traumas such as a poorly inserted speculum or rough sexual activity.
Once a doctor identifies the cause, the condition can usually be resolved. Patients may be given medication to treat the infection or encouraged to take a break from sexual activity and switch brands of lubricants, condoms or spermicides. If the area is given a chance to rest and recover, normal squamous cells will usually start growing again and the surface of the cervix will return to its usual state.
Cervical erosion is also referred to as cervical ectroption or cervical ectropy. It is important to remember that it is not cancerous, although some gynecological cancers can cause this condition. Women can reduce their risk of developing this problem by using safe sex practices, having regular gynecological checkups, and paying close attention for signs of infection and inflammation that could indicate the presence of a gynecological problem.
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