Cervicitis Infection: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Cervicitis is simply an inflammation or infection of the cervix. A Cervicitis infection can be caused by many things but is more commonly caused by sexually transmitted diseases such as Chlamydia and/or Gonorrhea. Other means of contacting a Cervicitis infection are from bacterial vaginitis, leaving a tampon in for a long period of time, and severe trauma to the cervix. Other sexually transmitted diseases such as Trichomonas(Trich), Herpes, and Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) may also be responsible for a Cervicitis infection. Allergic reaction to certain condoms, vaginal chemical washes, and various other sexual and hygiene products can cause a Cervicitis infection.

The cervix acts as a barrier to prevent bacteria and viruses from making their way up into the uterus and fallopian tubes. When a Cervicitis infection is present then the cervix is weakened and unable to protect the female organs from harm from the bacteria or virus. A Cervicitis infection sometimes will then lead to pelvic inflammatory disease in which a woman can become infertile if left untreated.

Cervicitis Infection, Cervicitis Symptoms, and Cervicitis Treatment

Cervicitis Symptoms

Some women may not even notice any Cervicitis symptoms with a Cervicitis infection. Diagnosis of a Cervicitis infection may only pose Cervicitis symptoms from lab tests such as a pap smear or an internal exam performed by a doctor. According to MedlinePlus, "If Cervicitis symptoms are present then women may experience unusual vaginal discharge that is persistent, may have an odor, and could have a color of yellow, gray or white. Abnormal vaginal bleeding may occur as well as vaginal pain or heaviness." Painful sexual intercourse may also be one of Cervicitis symptoms of such an infection. The vulva of the vagina may be inflamed from the Cervicitis infection due to chronic vaginal discharge. As stated before, many women may have no Cervicitis symptoms; thus, it is essential that women have a yearly pap smear performed.

Cervicitis Infection, Cervicitis Symptoms, and Cervicitis Treatment

Cervicitis Treatment

Cervicitis treatment depends on what the underlying cause of a Cervicitis infection. If a bacteria is present in lab testing then antibiotics are prescribed for Cervicitis treatment. Antiviral medications may be prescribed for Cervicitis treatment if the Cervicitis infection is caused by a virus. Only a doctor has the means to help with Cervicitis treatment and can not be performed with over the counter medications. If you suspect you have a Cervicitis infection and need Cervicitis treatment then do not delay and seek the proper medical help. For future prevention of a cervical infection, practice safe sex, have yearly pap smears performed, and sexually transmitted disease testing completed. Cervicitis treatment may take many months or years depending on the factors that caused the Cervicitis infection to begin with. Take proper precautions in the future.