Cervicitis

Causative and risk factors

Bacterial vaginosis and sexually transmitted disease such as chlamydia, trichomoniasis, gonorrhea and genital herpes can cause cervicitis. Hormonal imbalance such as low estrogen and high progesterone levels can also lead to cervicitis. Allergic reactions to contraceptive spermicides or to latex in condoms; or irritation from the use of tampons or diaphragms are other known causes. High risk sexual behavior such as sex at an early age, multiple sex partners etc. increase the risk of developing cervicitis.

Clinical presentation 

Women with cervicitis have an abnormal foul smelling discharge from vagina. The discharge is grayish or yellow in color and pus like. There may be pain while passing urine and during intercourse. Abnormal bleeding from vagina either after sex or between menses may be present. Backache is an associated symptom.

Investigations

Based upon your symptoms, if your doctor suspects cervicitis; he will perform a pelvic examination. A pap smear or a cervical biopsy will be done and the cervical discharge will be cultured.

Treatment

Treatment is not required if there are no symptoms. Treatment is specially needed if the cause is sexually transmitted infection. Depending upon the type of infection your doctor may prescribe antibiotic, antiviral or antifungal medications. Your doctor may also recommend treatment for your partner to prevent re-infection.