Content

Cervicitis is one of the most commonly diagnosed background diseases in the field of gynecology. Despite the fact that this pathology does not pose a threat to life, it can significantly worsen a woman's quality of life.

Cervicitis is an inflammatory process that develops in the vaginal part of the cervix. The disease does not always manifest itself with pronounced symptoms, which contributes to the transition of the active phase to chronic course... Prolonged sluggish cervicitis can lead to the formation of ectopia and hypertrophy of the cervical part of the uterus. In addition, chronic cervicitis often leads to the development of adnexitis and other inflammatory processes in the reproductive sphere in women.

The cervix resembles a narrow cylindrical tube up to four centimeters long and about two centimeters wide. It connects the uterine body and the vagina through the cervical canal, which runs in its center. The cervical canal is quite narrow and contains mucus-producing glands. This mucus helps the cervix to carry out a protective function and prevent the spread of infection along the ascending path from the vagina.

Unlike the vagina, the uterine cavity is sterile. The penetration of infection can cause various inflammatory processes and infertility.

Under influence unfavorable factors the protective function of the cervix is ​​impaired. As a result, the pathogenic flora penetrates the cervical canal, causing the development of endocervicitis. If inflammation is observed in the vaginal segment, they talk about the development of exocervicitis.

Cervicitis can occur in different types... Depending on the activity of the pathological process and the severity of its symptoms for a certain time, cervicitis is distinguished:

• acute;
• chronic.

The chronic form of cervicitis is a consequence of untreated acute inflammation and is difficult to treat. In some cases, doctors treat this pathology with surgery.

Cervicitis develops due to damage to the cervical tissue by various pathogenic microorganisms. Depending on the nature of the microflora leading to inflammation of the cervix, there are two types of cervicitis.

• Non-specific. This type of disease is caused by conditionally pathogenic microflora of the cervix. Most often, with nonspecific cervicitis, microorganisms such as staphylococcus, streptococcus, Candida fungi, E. coli are detected, which enter the cervical region along with blood and lymph.

This microflora is classified as opportunistic due to with the fact that it is often present on mucous membranes in small quantities. However, under unfavorable conditions, opportunistic microorganisms are activated, causing severe symptoms of inflammation.

• Specific. This type of microorganism includes chlamydia, ureaplasma and mycoplasma, HPV, herpes, CMV, gonococcus. Infection occurs mainly through sexual contact.

Cervicitis is distinguished according to the degree of mucosal lesion:

• focal;
• diffuse.

Cervicitis needs timely treatment, which is prescribed depending on the specific pathogen that caused the disease.

Causes and factors of occurrence

Cervicitis occurs when conditionally pathogenic and specific microflora is activated. However, in order for the inflammatory process to develop, the influence of the following negative factors is necessary:

• trauma to the tissues of the cervix during abortion, curettage, childbirth, the installation of an intrauterine device and a pessary;
• neoplasms of the cervical part, which are benign;
• weakening of the body's defenses;
• concomitant gynecological pathologies, for example, ectopia, vaginitis or bartholinitis;
• promiscuous sex life;
• long-term use of local contraception.

Most women diagnosed with cervicitis are of reproductive age. Nevertheless, it is possible that the disease will develop in women after menopause. If there is no treatment for the disease, polyps, ectopia and adnexitis may occur.

Treatment of pathology is of particular importance during pregnancy. This period is characterized by a physiological decrease in immunity, which often leads to an exacerbation of many diseases, including cervicitis. Doctors necessarily treat cervicitis in pregnant women due to the risk of infection of the amniotic membranes, the fetus itself, the threat of miscarriage, premature birth.

Clinical manifestations

Symptoms for cervicitis are often absent. In general, the intensity of the manifestations of the disease is influenced by the form of the course of cervicitis, which can be both acute and chronic.

Acute cervicitis occurs with severe symptoms.

• Discharge of a pathological nature. Often, women are worried about copious mucous or purulent discharge, which may have an unpleasant odor.
• Painful sensations. In the acute form, a dull pain in the lower abdomen may be present. When affected by infections Bladder urethritis and cystitis may develop.
• Feelings of discomfort. Often a woman has itching, tingling in the vagina.

Among the visual signs of an acute form of cervicitis are:

• swelling of tissues;
• hyperemia outside the cervical canal;
• swelling of the mucous membrane;
• areas of hemorrhage or ulceration.

If women do not receive timely treatment disease, the acute form becomes chronic.

In a chronic condition, the symptoms are erased, exacerbating when exposed to adverse factors. Unusual discharge, painful frequent urination and mild discomfort in the genital area may be systematically observed. During a gynecological examination, a slight swelling and tissue proliferation of the cervical mucosa is diagnosed, as well as epithelial replacement.

Manifestations in cervicitis directly depend on the pathogen that caused the disease. For example, gonorrhea is always accompanied by acute symptoms, while chlamydia has a latent course. When infected with the genital herpes virus, the cervix is ​​covered with characteristic ulcers, and HPV contributes to the formation of formations on the mucous membrane.

Symptoms of cervicitis are similar to those of many gynecological pathologies. To make the correct diagnosis and prescribe adequate treatment, a woman should consult a gynecologist.

Diagnostic methods

Since cervicitis is characterized by asymptomatic progression, the disease is often detected in a chronic stage. Treatment in such cases is often ineffective. Detection of cervicitis at the onset of the disease most often occurs by chance. Diagnosis of the disease is aimed not only at making a specific diagnosis, but also at determining the causes of the inflammatory process.

It is possible to identify cervicitis using basic diagnostic methods.

• Visual examination by a gynecologist on a chair. During the gynecological examination, the doctor uses a gynecological mirror, which allows you to see the changes characteristic of the disease: swelling, abundant discharge, pronounced color, proliferation and formation of the cervix.
• Colposcopy. This is an additional research method that is recommended in the presence of structural changes in the mucosa. For the diagnosis of background and precancerous diseases, an extended type of colposcopy is performed using special solutions. These substances are applied to the cervix in order to obtain a colposcopic picture of certain pathologies.

• Oncocytology. Such a study is a smear to determine atypical cells and the inflammatory process. A chronic process is indicated by a change in the shape of cylindrical cells.
• General smear. The laboratory method refers to the basic diagnosis and is performed to assess the vaginal microflora. With an acute type of pathology, an increased concentration of lymphocytes is observed, which ranges from 30 units.

• Bacterial culture. The analysis involves an expanded type of smear for the diagnosis of microorganisms that inhabit the vagina.
• PCR research. This diagnosis is necessary to identify pathogenic microflora that causes specific cervicitis.

Doctors treat infections with various antibacterial drugs. In order for the treatment to be effective and suitable for a specific strain of the microorganism, it is advisable to perform an antibiotic susceptibility test.

• Ultrasound with a vaginal probe. Diagnostics allows you to visualize the structural changes in the cervix, which are observed in pathology.

The examination is assigned on an individual basis, depending on the anamnesis, clinical picture and complaints of the patient.

Treatment

In modern gynecology, cervicitis is treated with different tactics. Treatment is aimed at eliminating the factor provoking inflammation and associated diseases of an infectious nature.

Pathology is treated:

• conservatively;
• surgically.

Conservative therapy involves taking various medications and procedures. Cervicitis is treated:

• antibacterial agents;
• antiviral medications;
• antifungal drugs;
• immunostimulants and immunomodulators;
• vitamin and mineral complexes;
• hormone therapy;
• antiseptics;
• physiotherapy.

Conservative treatment involves an integrated approach. Of particular importance is the simultaneous treatment of both sexual partners, adherence to all doctor's recommendations.

Cervicitis appears due to a decrease in immunity, in this regard, pathology is also treated with adequate nutrition and moderate physical activity. After the treatment, it is necessary to restore the vaginal microflora with special preparations.

Chronic cervicitis is often treated surgically.

• Diathermocoagulation. The method is used mainly in women who have given birth and involves the use of an electric current.
• Cryotherapy. The intervention is carried out with the help of liquid nitrogen, which freezes the pathological tissues.
• Laser therapy. Treatment involves the use of a dosed laser beam for women of different age groups.

Surgical treatment is carried out after drug therapy... A woman is not treated surgically when an active inflammatory process and genital infections are detected. A month after the treatment, its effectiveness is monitored. The patient was recommended to perform a laboratory study, undergo colposcopy and a general gynecological examination.

To avoid relapses, preventive measures must be followed:

• observe the rules of intimate hygiene;
• use a barrier method of protection;
• avoid casual sexual intercourse and surgical interventions;
• timely treat genital infections.

If symptoms of a gynecological disease occur, you should consult a doctor in a timely manner in order to undergo the necessary examination.

Most women face inflammatory diseases of the genital organs. The structural features of the female reproductive system are such that the infection quickly spreads from the vagina to the internal genital organs. Cervicitis turns into inflammation of the endometrium and ovaries. Often the consequences are complications of pregnancy or even infertility. Chronic inflammation is the cause of precancerous disease. It is important to strengthen the immune system, use contraception wisely, and regularly see a doctor in order to protect yourself from such dangers.

The epithelium of the cervical canal (endocervix), which connects the uterine cavity with the vagina, differs in structure from the epithelium lining the part of the cervix that is located directly in the vagina (exocervix). Depending on in which part of the cervix inflammation occurs, endocervicitis and exocervicitis are distinguished, respectively.

The age of women who have cervicitis of the cervix, in 70% of cases is 20-40 years, and only 30% of women are those who have had menopause.

The disease must be treated without fail, since when it goes into a chronic form, the walls of the uterus thicken, the lumen of the cervical canal narrows. This can lead to infertility. The spread of inflammation in the tubes and ovaries also leads to the impossibility of conception, the occurrence of an ectopic pregnancy, and hormonal disorders.

The danger of cervicitis in pregnant women

Cervicitis is associated with the destruction of the mucous plug that protects the uterus from infection from the vagina. The likelihood of the disease and the transition of the inflammatory process to a chronic form increases due to the inevitable decrease in immunity during this period (this prevents the rejection of the fetus).

In the presence of cervicitis in pregnant women, the risk of complications such as miscarriage and premature birth increases. Infection of the fetus is possible, which leads to abnormal development, the appearance of deformities, intrauterine death, the death of a newborn in the first months of life.

Cervicitis poses a great threat to early dates pregnancy, when organs and systems are formed in the fetus. Most often, a woman has a miscarriage. If acute cervicitis occurs in the middle or late pregnancy, the baby may develop hydrocephalus, kidney disease, and other diseases. Therefore, when planning a pregnancy, a woman should be cured of cervicitis in advance, and strengthen her immune system. Treatment is mandatory, since the risk of complications is very high.

Video: The danger of genital infections during pregnancy

Causes of cervicitis

The inflammatory process in the cervix can be infectious or occur for reasons not related to the penetration of microbes and viruses.

Infectious causes of infection

The cervix separates the sterile uterine cavity from the vagina, the microflora of which normally contains beneficial lactobacilli and opportunistic microorganisms. Beneficial lactic acid bacteria create a healthy environment that prevents pathogens from multiplying. The causes of cervicitis of infectious origin are:

1. Reproduction of opportunistic bacteria. Conditionally pathogenic microorganisms are called, which are always present in the intestines and urogenital organs of a person in small quantities, without causing harm. But under certain conditions, they begin to multiply uncontrollably, which leads to illness. These include, for example, staphylococci, streptococci, Escherichia coli, fungi, gardnerella. They cause inflammation of the vulva and vagina that spreads to the cervix. The infection can enter the vagina directly from the rectum and urinary organs.
2. Infection with human papillomavirus and genital herpes.
3. Infection with sexually transmitted infections (Trichomonas, pathogens of gonorrhea, mycoplasma, chlamydia and others).

Non-infectious causes of cervicitis

These reasons include:

• prolapse of the cervix and vagina;
• injuries to the cervix (tears during childbirth or during abortion, as well as damage during curettage and cauterization, causing scarring);
• non-observance of hygiene rules, use of unsuitable hygiene products;
• frequent douching with solutions that cause overdrying of the mucous membrane and disturbance of microflora;
• changes in the composition of the mucous membrane when using hormonal replacement therapy or contraceptives;
• pseudo-erosion of the cervix, that is, the movement of cells of the columnar epithelium of the cervical canal into the area of ​​the squamous epithelium of the vaginal part of the cervix. This happens during abortion, childbirth or surgery.

Contributes to the occurrence of inflammation of the cervix, decreased immunity, the presence of tumor diseases, uncontrolled intake of antibiotics.

Video: Diagnostics and treatment of cervicitis

Types and forms of cervicitis

There are different types of cervicitis.

Purulent cervicitis. Sources of inflammation are gonococci, ureaplasma, trachoma sticks. The infection is sexually transmitted, affects the mucous membrane of the cervical canal (columnar epithelium). If there is a displacement of cylindrical cells in the area of ​​squamous epithelium (ectopia of the cervix appears), then the purulent process extends to the displaced areas. The process can also affect the stroma, which separates the mucous membrane from the muscles. The infection spreads to other organs of the small pelvis and becomes the cause of their inflammation.

Viral cervicitis. The inflammation is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) or the causative agent of genital herpes (specific infections). Papillomas or herpes can occur both inside the cervical canal and on the vaginal surface of the cervix. A characteristic feature is severe itching in the neck and pain in the lower abdomen. Most often, this type of cervicitis occurs in women of childbearing age who are sexually active.

Bacterial cervicitis. The process of inflammation extends to all parts of the mucous membrane of the cervix: both the internal and its vaginal segment. The reason is bacterial vaginosis, that is, the development of opportunistic bacteria in the vagina due to a lack of beneficial lactic acid bacteria in the microflora. With such a disease, there is no danger of infection of the sexual partner. However, if a genital infection also enters the vagina, the disease turns into a purulent form.

Atrophic cervicitis. This is the name of a type of disease in which there is a decrease in the thickness of the mucous membranes of the cervix (atrophy). The causes of such a process can be both specific (gonococcus, Trichomonas, herpes virus and HPV), and nonspecific infections (staphylococcus, streptococcus).

In addition, this type of cervicitis occurs due to traumatic damage to the mucous membrane during abortion or curettage.

Cystic cervicitis. There is an inflammation of the glands located in the columnar epithelium, an increase in its volume, the formation of many cysts in the mucous membrane and damage to its surface. This type is an advanced stage of the disease, in which there is a combination different types infections.

The disease often occurs in an acute form with pronounced symptoms. If untreated, the inflammation becomes chronic, spreads to the glands and affects the mucous membrane in depth. At the same time, treatment is complicated by the fact that the external signs of the disease are smoothed out, it is more difficult to diagnose cervicitis. Often it can be detected only at a late stage, when the inflammation passes to the uterine appendages.

Symptoms and signs of cervicitis

In some cases, even acute cervicitis is difficult to notice, as it proceeds without pain or other obvious symptoms. However, in severe form, acute inflammation can cause profuse, foul-smelling, purulent discharge. There are pulling pains in the lower abdomen, in the lower back. Discharge with blood impurities appears, especially after intercourse, which also becomes painful. There is an itch in the genitals. Fever, nausea and dizziness are possible. Frequent painful urination is observed.

Signs of the disease in the acute stage are edema and redness of the mucous membrane on the surface of the vaginal segment of the cervix. Examination reveals a protrusion of the mucous membrane of the cervical canal into the outer region. It has minor hemorrhages and ulcers.

With the transition of the disease to a chronic form, the discharge becomes less abundant, since the production of mucus by the glands of the cervical canal is disrupted. Cloudy discharge contains blood impurities. The woman feels a constant aching pain in the lower back.

The degree of manifestation of the disease depends on the type of infection. When infected with gonococci, the manifestations, for example, are stronger than with chlamydia. If the occurrence of cervicitis is associated with the herpes virus, then on the mucous membrane there are separate sores, loose areas of bright red color.

In the presence of chronic cervicitis, mucosal edema decreases. It is possible to move the outer cervical epithelium into the cervical canal. The color of the mucous membrane is bright pink. Cysts and vesicles containing lymph and blood are found. The inflammation spreads to nearby tissues.

Diagnosis of cervicitis

Since there may be no obvious symptoms of cervicitis of the cervix, for the timely detection and diagnosis of this disease great importance has regular preventive medical visits.

The following methods are used for the survey:

1. Examination of the cervix using mirrors. At the same time, they notice a change in the color of the vaginal segment of the cervix, the presence of purulent plaque, hemorrhages, ulcers, as well as the appearance of edema.
2. Analyzes of a smear from the cervix for examination under a microscope and detection of infectious agents in it.
3. Bacteriological culture of the contents of the smear, which allows you to determine the type of microbes and sensitivity to antibacterial drugs.
4. PCR and ELISA. With these methods of examining a smear, you can determine the presence of pathogens of specific infections and estimate their number.
5. Colposcopy. By means of optical magnification and illumination of the vagina and the cervical canal, the state of the mucous membranes is studied using a colposcope.
6. Laboratory analysis of a smear for the content of leukocytes, erythrocytes and lymphocytes makes it possible to assess the degree of inflammation of a non-infectious nature.

In the chronic stage of cervicitis, destroyed epithelial cells are found in the smear. Additionally, general blood and smear tests for leukocytes are performed, as well as an HIV test.

Video: When are different smear tests used?

Cervicitis treatment

Treatment of cervicitis consists in eliminating the causes of the disease, fighting inflammation and strengthening the body's defenses.

To destroy pathogens, antibiotics, antiviral and antifungal drugs are used. When a papilloma virus is detected in a woman's body, special attention is paid to treatment, since damage to the genitals with an increased probability can lead to the formation of malignant tumors. First of all, drugs-immunomodulators (interferon, cycloferon, immunal) are prescribed.

Vaccines, tablets and ointments are used to clear the mucous membrane of papillomas. However, there is a risk of relapse, so a woman is advised to undergo regular gynecological examinations.

Often, you can get rid of papillomas only by surgery. Such treatment is often used to eliminate chronic cervicitis of any nature. Methods such as laser destruction, cryotherapy, chemical cauterization, electro-destruction, radio wave coagulation are used.

Sometimes the treatment of cervicitis requires the simultaneous elimination of urological diseases.

Note: If genital infections are the cause of mucosal inflammation, then the woman's sexual partner should be treated at the same time.

In order to accelerate the recovery of the mucous membrane and improve hormonal background, estrogen and progesterone preparations are used.

After elimination of inflammation, agents are prescribed containing beneficial bacteria necessary to maintain the normal composition of the vaginal microflora. Used suppositories lactobacterin, kipferon, as well as vaginal tablets gynoflor.

Video: Diseases of the cervix in the presence of human papillomavirus. Cervical treatment methods

Prevention of cervicitis

The most important preventive measures to reduce the likelihood of cervicitis are proper hygienic care of the external genital organs, the use of condoms during sexual intercourse. Correctly selected contraceptives help to avoid abortion, possible injury to the cervix and infection. It is necessary to treat intestinal and urological diseases on time.

Long-term ongoing inflammatory process in the mucous membrane of the vaginal and supravaginal parts of the cervix, which in some cases extends to its connective tissue and muscle layer. During remission, symptoms are limited to an increase in the amount of vaginal discharge. With an exacerbation, the volume of discharge increases, they become mucopurulent, the patient notes pain in the lower abdomen. When making a diagnosis, the data of extended colposcopy, bacteriological, serological and cytological analyzes, gynecological ultrasound are taken into account. For treatment, antibiotics, hormonal drugs, eubiotics, and immune agents are used.

General information

Diagnostics

Insofar as clinical manifestations chronic cervicitis are nonspecific and usually poorly expressed, the leading role in the diagnosis is played by the data of physical, instrumental and laboratory studies. The most informative for the diagnosis are:

• Inspection on the chair. A slight swelling of the mucous membrane is determined, the cervix looks thickened and somewhat enlarged. In the area of ​​the exocervix, eroded areas and papillomatous growths are revealed.
• Extended colposcopy... Inspection under a microscope allows you to clarify the condition of the mucous membrane, timely identify precancerous changes and malignant degeneration of the epithelium.
• Laboratory etiological studies... A smear on flora and culture with an antibioticogram are aimed at detecting the pathogen and assessing its sensitivity to etiotropic drugs. With the help of PCR, RIF, ELISA, it is possible to reliably determine the type of a specific infectious agent.
• Cytomorphological diagnostics. When examining the scraping of the cervix, the nature of the changes and the state of the cells of the exo- and endocervix are assessed. Biopsy histology is carried out according to indications for the timely detection of signs of malignancy.
• 1. Etiotropic drug treatment ... With the infectious genesis of cervicitis, antibacterial and antiviral drugs are used. When selecting an antimicrobial agent, the sensitivity of the pathogen is taken into account. Hormonal drugs (estrogens) are used in the treatment of atrophic cervicitis in women during menopause.
  2. Restoration of vaginal microflora... After a course of antibiotic therapy, eubiotics are recommended topically (in the form of suppositories, tampons, vaginal irrigation) and inside.
  3. Adjunctive therapy... To accelerate the processes of regeneration of the mucous membrane, strengthen immunity and prevent possible relapses, immuno- and phytotherapy, physiotherapy procedures are shown.

  In the presence of retention cysts, radio wave diathermopuncture is prescribed. In cases where conservative treatment is ineffective, or chronic cervicitis is combined with dysplasia, elongation, scar deformity and other diseases of the cervix, surgical techniques are used - cryo- or laser therapy, tracheloplasty, etc.

  Forecast and prevention

  The prognosis of the disease is favorable. For the timely detection of possible cervical dysplasia, the patient after a course of treatment needs to undergo colposcopy twice a year, take cytological smears and bacterial culture. Prevention of chronic cervicitis includes regular check-ups by a gynecologist, adequate treatment of inflammatory diseases of the female genital area, justified prescription of invasive procedures. It is recommended to follow the rules of intimate hygiene, streamline sex life, use condoms (especially during sexual intercourse with unfamiliar partners), exclude sex during menstruation. For the prevention of relapses, courses of general strengthening and immunotherapy, adherence to sleep and rest, protection from hypothermia of the legs and pelvic region are effective.

The modern pace of life does not allow you to pay enough attention to your own health. Often a person simply does not notice the body's signals about disturbances in the functioning of systems and organs. As a result, medical statistics provide less and less comforting facts about the state of health every year. modern people, in particular women: the level of inflammatory and infectious diseases is increasing, an increasing number of women of reproductive age suffer from infertility or face problems with bearing a child. Cervicitis has become one of these common diseases. What it is, what are the symptoms of the disease and how to cure it - we will consider in detail in our article.

What is cervicitis?

Cervicitis is the lining of the cervix. The reasons for this condition can be various infectious diseases reproductive system, chronic problems of the reproductive system, mechanical trauma and damage to the mucous membrane.

Why is the disease dangerous?

Cervicitis - what is it and how dangerous is this disease? is a muscular organ located between the vagina and the uterus. Its main function is to protect the uterus from the entry and spread of various genital tract infections. During pregnancy, the cervix protects the fetus from infection and mechanically supports the growing organ in the small pelvis, opening directly only during labor for normal delivery.

The foci of inflammation in the cervix disrupt its protective functions, which, accordingly, leads to the spread of pathogenic and opportunistic microflora in the body. Cervicitis is especially dangerous during pregnancy, as the fetus becomes susceptible to infection various diseases, and there is also a risk of premature birth or miscarriage. In addition, they contribute to the development of complications of the root cause of the problem, namely, bacterial and viral infections.

Cervicitis in women causes unpleasant symptoms, as well as contributes to the development of concomitant diseases such as erosion, polyps and atrophy of the mucous membrane of the cervix. Against the background of a general weakening of the protective functions of systems and organs, it is possible to attach one or more secondary infections, which complicates the diagnosis and treatment of the disease.

Types of cervicitis

Depending on the area of ​​the cervix of the uterus, the inflammatory focus is formed, cervicitis is divided into two types:

1. Exocervicitis is a disease in which inflammation occurs in the vaginal region of the cervix. Such a problem can be detected with a standard gynecological examination.
2. Inflammation channel cervix, which is denoted by the medical term "endocervix", is called "endocervicitis". This type of disease is quite difficult to detect during a routine examination. Additional tests and observation of characteristic symptoms are required.
3. Separately, it is necessary to highlight chronic cervicitis. a prolonged inflammatory process in the cervix, which is characterized by the development of an exacerbation during the onset of unfavorable external factors (weakening of the immune system, hormonal disorders, infection). Often accompanied by mucosal atrophy.

Causes of the disease

The causes of inflammation of the mucous membrane of the cervix are very different: from common thrush (candidiasis) to improper management of childbirth. Therefore, it is extremely important for every woman to undergo regular preventive examinations with a gynecologist at least twice a year. And if you have any complaints, you should immediately consult a specialist for advice, since it is much easier to prevent the development of complications and chronic forms of the disease by early stages spread of the focus of inflammation.

The causes of cervicitis can be classified as follows:

• sexually transmitted infections (STDs), such as urogenital mycoplasmosis, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, candidiasis, vaginosis and others;
• viral diseases: herpes, human papillomavirus;
• getting into the cervix of nonspecific opportunistic microflora: Escherichia coli, fungi, staphylococci;
• hormonal disorders;
• mechanical damage to the mucous membrane: birth trauma, the consequences of abortion and surgery;
• irritation chemicals: contraceptives, personal hygiene products, uncontrolled douching.

In addition, inflammatory processes, neoplasms of the cervix, scars, decreased immunity lead to the development of cervicitis. How to treat inflammation - we will consider below.

Symptoms of cervicitis

Cervicitis is often asymptomatic. In this case, a disease is detected only during a routine medical examination. A woman may experience pulling sensations in the lower abdomen, changes in the color and consistency of genital secretions occur. Such symptoms are not immediately noticed, but in the meantime, the disease progresses and affects an increasing area of ​​the cervix, additional symptoms appear.

Symptoms of cervicitis are quite diverse and depend on the root cause of the development of the inflammatory process. Attention should be paid to the following signs that may indicate the development of an inflammatory process in the cervix:

1. Change in discharge from the genital tract. So, with cervicitis caused by a bacterium of the genus Candida, cheesy discharge appears. If the root cause of inflammation of the cervix is ​​gonorrhea, then purulent, yellowish discharge is noticed. With urogenital mycoplasmosis and chlamydia - transparent, trichomoniasis is characterized by foamy discharge from the genitals.
2. Drawing pains in the lower abdomen, often aching and dull, reminiscent of menstrual periods. Less often, the pain is acute, sharp. Can give to the lower back, sacrum.
3. Bloody discharge in the middle of the cycle or during intercourse.
4. Unpleasant sensations during intimate relationships, decreased libido.
5. Frequent urination or false urge.
6. An additional symptom is confirmed colpitis. In this case, cervicitis is often a concomitant disease.

Diagnosis of the disease

A gynecologist can diagnose cervicitis after an examination using gynecological mirrors. With a disease, the cervix has swelling, redness, hemorrhage and erosion may be detected. If the cause of the development of inflammation was an infection of the genital tract, the gynecologist will notice a discharge that differs from the norm: a change in color, quantity, consistency, odor.

The gynecologist, taking into account the results of the examination, anamnesis and the patient's symptoms, will recommend a number of laboratory tests:

Cocoloscopy is widely used to confirm the diagnosis of cervicitis. What is it and how does the procedure take place? It is carried out by introducing a special apparatus - a coloscope, which displays the resulting image on the screen. Thus, the doctor can assess the state of the cervical epithelium, detect the focus of inflammation, polyps, neoplasms, erosion. According to the indications, it is possible to carry out the procedure using various tests, for example, iodine or acetic, Hrobak's test. Usually, with coloscopy, a swab and biopsy are taken for further laboratory examination.

Drugs for the treatment of infectious cervicitis

Inflammation of the cervix caused by a bacterial infection requires treatment with antibacterial drugs. In order to determine the substance acting on the identified pathogenic microorganism, the doctor prescribes the necessary treatment on the basis of the results obtained. In order to cure infectious cervicitis, the following drugs are used:

• Ceftriaxone;
• "Azithromycin";
• Erythromycin;
• "Doxycycline";
• Ofloxacin;
• "Flagil";
• "Tinidazole";
• "Penicillin";
• "Azithromycin".

In parallel with taking antibiotics, the doctor will prescribe medications to normalize the local microflora and relieve puffiness, for example, Livarol suppositories. In addition to taking antibacterial agents, the gynecologist will give recommendations on abstaining from intimate relationships, treating a sexual partner and remind about the rules of personal hygiene: frequent linen changes, washing, using individual towels.

After taking a course of antibiotics, the doctor, if necessary, will prescribe surgical methods for removing papillomas, cauterizing erosion, and others.

Treatment of viral cervicitis

Viral cervicitis how to treat? For this, antiviral drugs are prescribed, for example, "Acyclovir" and its analogues. The course usually lasts 5 days. Just as with an infectious infection, the gynecologist will give recommendations on the observance of the rules of personal hygiene and suggest laser treatment, cryosurgery or other methods. surgical treatment complications of the inflammatory process.

Treatment of nonspecific and chronic cervicitis

In the treatment of cervicitis caused by opportunistic microflora or mechanical damage, the following drugs are used:

Chronic cervicitis of the cervix, which caused tissue atrophy, is treated with local hormonal preparations: creams, ointments, suppositories. The most common is the drug "Ovestin". Reviews speak of its high efficiency and safety.

Physiotherapy

For the treatment of cervicitis of various origins, in parallel with taking medications, physiotherapy methods are used. With their help, benign formations of the cervix, colpitis, ectopia are effectively treated. Cervicitis has a peculiarity to spread - physiotherapy methods help to reduce the area of ​​the focus of inflammation and relieve swelling. The following types of therapy are used:

• magnetotherapy;
• electrophoresis;
• ultrasonic wave treatment;
• irradiation with ultraviolet rays.

Surgical treatments

In modern medicine, cervicitis is treated with surgical methods. Reviews of such methods are mixed. Doctors talk about the high efficiency of surgical intervention in the inflammatory process of the cervix. But the procedures are often painful, have a number of contraindications and side reactions. The following methods are used to treat cervicitis:

1. Cryosurgery- This is the burning of damaged tissues with liquid nitrogen. The procedure is usually painless, it is carried out without anesthesia, literally within 10 minutes. But after the procedure, within 3 weeks, various side reactions may appear: the presence of unusual discharge, bleeding, in rare cases, there are convulsions, infection, scarring.
2. Thermotherapy- This is cauterization of diseased tissues using a thermal sensor. Sometimes the procedure calls pain therefore it is possible to use anesthetics. In the postoperative period, bleeding, changes in discharge, scarring are also possible.
3. They remove the tissue damaged by the disease and using laser beam... The procedure is performed using anesthesia. During the recovery period, it is necessary to consult a doctor if bleeding, an unpleasant smell of discharge, pain in the lower back, pelvis and lower abdomen appear.

Cervicitis: folk remedies

Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the cervix is ​​a serious and dangerous disease with complications, therefore, self-medication is not recommended. But use useful properties plants as an additional treatment, not forgetting to follow all the doctor's recommendations, will be useful. We offer such folk recipes from cervicitis:

1. Squeeze out a few cloves of garlic. Dissolve it in a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar. Then add a tablespoon of honey. Soak a cotton swab in the mixture and insert it into your vagina for an hour. This remedy should not be used if there is mucosal erosion.
2. A steam sitz bath with a few drops of tea tree oil helps with candidiasis-related cervicitis. The duration of the session should be 15 minutes.
3. Ready-made preparations for the treatment of gynecological problems can be purchased at the pharmacy and used for the douching procedure. To prepare a herbal collection on your own, you will need the following plants: plantain leaves, lilac flowers, chicory root, sage leaves - all in equal proportions. It is necessary to pour 2 tablespoons of chopped plants with a liter of boiling water and cook over low heat for 15 minutes. Then you need to strain and cool to a temperature of 38 degrees. Using a rubber bulb, follow the douching procedure. You can use such a remedy once a day for a week, preferably before bedtime. Treatment of chronic cervicitis is not complete without douching with decoctions of medicinal herbs.

Be attentive to your health: watch your diet, do not forget about the rules of personal hygiene, choose your sexual partner and means of protection against STIs responsibly. At the first symptoms of the disease, be sure to consult your doctor.

Content:

Nonspecific cervicitis- means that the inflammation of the cervix arose as a result of changes in the normal microflora of the vagina, but has no connection with genital infections. Nonspecific cervicitis especially often occurs as a consequence .

Atrophic cervicitis- means that at the same time as inflammation, a woman has a thinning of the tissues of the cervix. Usually, atrophic cervicitis is a consequence chronic inflammation cervix.

Focal cervicitis- means that only certain areas of the mucous membrane of the cervical canal are inflamed.

Why is cervicitis dangerous? Potential consequences and complications

In the absence of adequate treatment for cervicitis and other accompanying manifestations of infection, it significantly increases the risk , premature birth and.

Symptoms and signs of cervicitis

The main symptoms of acute cervicitis (endocervicitis) are:

• foul-smelling, purulent, frothy discharge from their vagina (see);
• itching in the genital area;
• lower abdominal pain ( other causes of abdominal pain in women)
• pain during urination and frequent urge to urinate;
• pain during sex and bloody vaginal discharge after sex ( other causes of pain during sex);
• dark spotting vaginal discharge between two periods ( other causes of bleeding).

Chronic cervicitis most often does not show any symptoms.

Could there be cervicitis if there are no symptoms?

Yes, this is possible. Quite often, genital infections, against the background of which cervicitis develops, proceed in a chronic form, completely asymptomatic and go unnoticed for a long time. In such cases, chronic cervicitis can be detected during a routine examination by a gynecologist or during an examination for some other problem.

Impact of cervicitis on pregnancy

The presence of cervicitis in a pregnant woman increases the risk of intrauterine infection of the fetus (an infection that provoked inflammation of the cervix).

In addition, against the background of cervicitis, the risk of premature birth, low birth weight, and infectious complications in the mother (for example, endometritis) after childbirth is significantly increased.

Treatment of cervicitis during pregnancy is selected depending on the type of infection that provoked it. You can find detailed recommendations on the treatment of infections during pregnancy under .

Analyzes and examinations to detect cervicitis

The main methods for diagnosing cervicitis are:

Examination by a gynecologist. During the examination, the doctor assesses the condition of the walls of the vagina and cervix. Heavy, foul-smelling discharge in the vagina, redness and irritation of the vagina and cervix, and discharge of pus from the cervical canal are the most common signs of cervicitis that a doctor may notice during an examination.

To clarify the cause of the disease, the doctor may advise you to take a regular microbiological smear from the vagina and a cytological smear (Pap test).

A detailed explanation of how these tests are performed, how to prepare for them and what their results may mean is presented in the articles: Bacteriological smear and Evidence-based guidance for women on issues related to cervical cancer protection.

Depending on the symptoms of the disease and changes detected during the gynecological examination, the doctor may prescribe additional tests and tests (analysis for syphilis, ultrasound of the pelvic organs, general analysis of urine and blood, etc.)

During an examination for cervicitis, a gynecologist may detect cervical erosion, leukoplakia, or dysplasia in a woman. Detailed description what it is, and what needs to be done about it, is presented in the articles :, and Evidence-based guidance for women on issues related to cervical cancer protection.

How do I prepare for my doctor's appointment?

1. Refuse sexual intercourse 1-2 days before the examination
2. 2-3 days before the examination, do not douche and refuse any intimate hygiene products
3. Stop using any medications in the form of vaginal suppositories, tablets or sprays as early as possible before the examination, unless their use was previously agreed with the doctor.
4. Hygiene of the external genital organs should be carried out in the evening, before the examination - only with warm water. In the morning, on the day of the examination, you do not need to wash yourself.
5. It is advisable not to urinate 2-3 hours before the visit to the doctor.

Cervicitis treatment

Treatment of cervicitis (endocervicitis), including its chronic form depends on the type of infection that provoked the disease.

Due to the fact that many infections that cause cervicitis are contagious and are transmitted during intercourse, treatment of both sex partners is mandatory in most cases.
Even if a man has no signs of illness, this does not mean that he is not infected. Chlamydia, trichomoniasis and gonorrhea in men can be completely asymptomatic.

Before starting treatment, your doctor may ask you to have a pregnancy test. This is strictly necessary as some of the medications used in the treatment of cervicitis can adversely affect the development of pregnancy. If it turns out that you are pregnant, the doctor will select a special, safe treatment.

Medicines for the treatment of cervicitis

The main method of treating cervicitis (endocervicitis), including its chronic form, is the appointment of antibiotics that suppress the development of infection. The choice of antibiotic is made by the attending physician and depends on the type of infection that caused the disease. ,.

Traditional methods of treating cervicitis

At the moment, no really effective alternative methods or recipes for the treatment of cervicitis (endocervicitis) are known.

Infections that provoke the development of cervicitis cannot be eliminated with medicinal herbs, therefore, the use of alternative methods of treating cervicitis is allowed only with the consent of the doctor and simultaneously or after the main antibiotic treatment.

If you are planning treatment folk remedies pay attention to the following notes:

• Misconceptions about the effectiveness of many of the methods described folk treatment cervicitis arose due to the fact that, approximately 4-5 weeks after the onset of the disease, even without any treatment, the infection that provoked it can become asymptomatic, but it continues to develop.
• Many popular recipes for the treatment of cervicitis involve the introduction of tampons moistened with infusions of medicinal herbs into the vagina or douching. Such treatment for cervicitis can greatly disrupt the composition of the vaginal microflora and provoke dangerous complications... see also How safe is douching, can it be done, what can replace douching?