Cervicitis: know the disease that affects many women throughout their lives

Cervicitis is popularly known, by many people, just for inflammation of the cervix. “Chronic cervicitis is an inflammation of the cervix that can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or even HPV,” according to gynecologist Dr. Heitor Leandro Paiva Rodrigues. Specialists also claim that it is a very common disease and that, therefore, all women can present it one or more times during their lifetime. In this way, guidance is necessary, as many do not know the causes and symptoms.

Despite being a very simple disease, the lack of treatment can lead to other problems that need attention, such as more serious inflammation, infertility and even cancer.

Causes

The causes of the disease can be varied and each of them has its particularity. Among them, we can mention:

• Trauma caused by sexual intercourse, vaginal douches, among others.
• Hormonal imbalances caused by contraceptives.
• Imbalance of the vaginal flora after sexual intercourse.
• Sexually transmitted infections (STDs).

The causes of cervicitis are quite simple and diverse. Thus, the disease becomes one of the most common, and can affect most women throughout their lives.

“There are several causes for cervicitis, from sexually transmitted infections and trauma in sexual intercourse, to the use of vaginal medications and vulvovaginitis, etc. Talk to your doctor. Clarify your doubts. Discuss your treatment.” says Hector.

Symptoms

• discharge
• Pain in sexual intercourse
• Burning in the vaginal area
• Lower belly pain

If you have experienced one or more of these symptoms, do not hesitate to consult a doctor. Even though it is a simple disease, neglect can cause many unwanted problems and more serious diseases such as infertility and even cancer.

Diagnosis

Tests that can diagnose cervicitis include:

• Culture of vaginal secretion
• colposcopy
• pap smear

In most cases of the disease, as it does not present symptoms, it is identified in routine exams. Therefore, it is always important to consult a gynecologist periodically.

Cervicitis treatment

• Through medication: in infectious cases, the treatment of cervicitis must be done through medication prescribed by the doctor or doctor. He is the one who will assess the level of the disease and indicate the best medicine.
• Strengthening the immune system: in milder cases of cervicitis and when there are no symptoms, the body itself can get rid of the disease on its own.

There are several home treatments for mild cases, but always remember: only the doctor will be able to identify your level of disease and indicate the most effective treatment.

Prevention

The best form of treatment is prevention. That way, you avoid the disease while taking care of your body and your health! The simplest forms of prevention are:

• always use condom
• Get the HPV vaccine
• Take routine exams.
• Have a healthy eating.
• Do physical exercises.

It is always good to emphasize the importance of doing routine exams and periodically consulting your doctor or gynecologist. In addition, many other problems can be identified and addressed through periodic consultation.

Common questions

There are many doubts related to the subject, mainly because it affects so many women and many do not know the disease. Among these main questions are:

1. Is cervicitis curable?

Yes, she has a cure! And often the body eliminates without the need for intervention. “There are several causes of cervicitis. If you don’t feel anything, you don’t necessarily need treatment.” says the expert.

2. Are Cervicitis and HPV the Same Thing?

“Cervicitis is not always caused by HPV and sexually transmitted infections. It can be caused by vaginal medications, trauma in the relationship, vulvovaginitis, etc. Not all cervicitis needs treatment. If your physical exam is normal and you have no complaints, treatment is not necessary.” says Hector.

3. What is the difference between acute and chronic cervicitis?

Chronic cervicitis is caused by trauma or by aspects of the body itself, such as hormonal imbalance and vaginal flora, and is considered the simplest case. The acute form is the type of cervicitis caused by bacteria, fungi and viruses from outside, through sexual transmission and, in general, medication and medical follow-up are necessary.

4. Is it possible to get pregnant with cervicitis?

According to the expert, “chronic cervicitis does not make pregnancy difficult, does not reduce your fertility and does not harm your future baby. It is not necessarily caused by a sexually transmitted disease.” Damage can occur if the symptoms of cervicitis are not treated and the disease progresses to a pelvic inflammatory infection, which can lead to infertility.

Now that you know the main causes and symptoms of cervicitis, it is possible to start prevention, and always remember to consult a doctor or gynecologist periodically. If you experience one or more of the above symptoms, do not hesitate to consult a professional immediately. Your health deserves care and attention.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.