Cervical diseases are a significant medical problem that can affect women’s health at various times in their lives. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that connects it to the vagina. It plays a key role in a woman’s reproductive system and overall health. Therefore, the diseases can have serious consequences if they are not treated in time. In this article, we look at the six most common cervical diseases, their symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment methods.
1. Cervicitis
Cervicitis is an inflammation of the cervix caused by a variety of causes, including infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea and allergic reactions to chemicals (such as spermicides or latex). Symptoms of cervicitis include lower abdominal pain, abnormal vaginal discharge, pain during sex, and frequent urination.
To diagnose cervicitis, the doctor usually performs a gynecological examination and takes a smear for analysis. Treatment depends on the cause of the inflammation. If cervicitis is caused by an infection, antibiotics are prescribed. For non-infectious causes, anti-inflammatories or changes in hygiene habits can be recommended.
2. Cervical erosion
Cervical erosion is a problem in the lining of the cervix, which can be congenital or caused by injury, infection, or hormonal imbalance. Erosion is often asymptomatic, but in some cases, it can cause discharge and pain during intercourse.
The diagnosis of erosion can be performed through colposcopy (examination of the cervix for hypertrophy) and by Pap test. Treatment depends on the extent and type of erosion. Doctors may suggest cauterization or cryodestruction to manage the erosion.
3. Cervical polyps
Cervical polyps are benign formations that occur on the surface of the cervix. They can be caused by hormonal changes, chronic inflammatory processes, or infections. Polyps are often discovered accidentally during a gynecological examination because they rarely cause obvious symptoms. However, some women may experience spotting, especially after sex.
Polyps can be removed with a simple outpatient surgical procedure. To exclude malignant processes, an examination of the polyp tissue under a microscope is necessary.
4. Cervical cancer
Cervical cancer is one of the most dangerous diseases of the female reproductive system. However, it can be prevented or managed effectively with early diagnosis and treatment. The main cause of cervical cancer is long-term infection with oncogenic HPV types. Cancer may not cause symptoms in the early stages, but as the disease progresses, symptoms such as bleeding after sex, pelvic pain, and abnormal vaginal discharge may occur.
The main method of diagnosis is the Pap test and the HPV test. Treatment for cervical cancer depends on the stage of the disease and may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
5. Endometriosis of the cervix
Endometriosis is a disease in which cells of the uterine lining (endometrium) grow outside the uterus. When these cells grow on the cervix, they can cause pain, especially during periods of sex, and abnormal bleeding. The exact cause of endometriosis is unknown, but hormonal factors are believed to play an important role in its development.
A diagnosis of endometriosis may require a laparoscopy (minimally invasive surgery to examine the internal organs) or a tissue biopsy of the cervix. Treatment includes medications to prevent the growth of endometrial tissue or surgical removal of endometrial lesions.
6. Cervical cysts
Cervical cysts or Nabothian cysts are small cysts that form on the cervix. They often develop after mucus-producing glands are blocked. Cervical cysts usually do not cause symptoms and don’t require treatment unless they become large or cause discomfort.
Cysts are often found accidentally during a routine examination, and in most cases, they are left untreated if they do not cause symptoms. If necessary, the cysts can be surgically removed.
Prevention and recommendations
Regular gynecological examinations and preventive examinations such as Pap tests form the basis for early detection and prevention of cervical diseases. HPV vaccination also significantly reduces the risk of developing cancer and pre-cancerous changes. Women need to be aware of any changes in their health, including abnormal discharge, pain, or bleeding, and seek medical attention immediately. It is also important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, quit smoking because it increases the risk of cervical cancer, and practice protected sex to reduce the risk of infection.
