What are the causes and symptoms of cervical erosion?

Cervical erosion is a physiological change of cervical epithelial cells, not a disease, and usually does not require excessive treatment. Its causes include changes in hormone levels, cervical inflammation, etc. Common symptoms are increased vaginal discharge or abnormal bleeding. Treatment methods are selected according to specific circumstances. Mild symptoms can be treated with observation or medication, while severe cases require physical therapy or surgery.

1. Causes of cervical erosion

Changes in hormone levels are one of the main causes of cervical erosion. When women are in adolescence, pregnancy, or taking birth control pills, their estrogen levels rise, causing the columnar epithelium in the cervical canal to move outward, forming an erosive appearance. Cervical inflammation may also cause erosion, such as chronic cervicitis or infectious cervicitis, which stimulate cervical epithelial cells for a long time and cause them to change. Frequent sexual intercourse, multiple miscarriages or childbirth may also cause mechanical damage to the cervix, increasing the risk of erosion.

2. Common symptoms of cervical erosion

The symptoms of cervical erosion vary from person to person, and some women may not experience obvious discomfort. Common symptoms include increased vaginal discharge, which may be yellow or have an odor. A small number of patients may experience contact bleeding, such as bleeding after sexual intercourse or after a gynecological examination. If accompanied by infection, it may be accompanied by lower abdominal pain or discomfort in the lumbar sacral region. These symptoms are not specific to cervical erosion and require a gynecological examination to confirm the diagnosis.

3. Treatment of cervical erosion

Patients with mild cervical erosion and no symptoms usually do not need special treatment and only need regular follow-up. Drug treatment is suitable for patients with inflammation. Commonly used drugs include antibiotics such as metronidazole, anti-inflammatory drugs such as Baofukang suppositories or Chinese medicine preparations such as Fuyankang tablets. Physical therapy is suitable for patients with obvious symptoms or large areas of erosion. Common methods include laser therapy, cryotherapy or electrocautery. Surgical treatment is suitable for very rare cases. If the erosion is severe and recurrent, cervical conization or LEEP knife can be used for treatment.

Cervical erosion is a common physiological phenomenon and does not require excessive treatment in most cases. Women should undergo regular gynecological examinations to promptly detect and treat potential problems. If symptoms such as abnormal vaginal discharge and contact bleeding occur, seek medical attention in a timely manner for a clear diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Maintaining good living habits and avoiding excessive cleaning or the use of irritating products can help maintain a healthy cervix.