WOMENS-HEALTH Messages for June, 1997: Re: acute cervicitis

Re: acute cervicitis

From: D. Ashley Hill, M.D. (anonymous@obgyn.net)
Sun, 1 Jun 1997 08:59:09 -0500 (CDT)

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At Fri, 30 May 1997, Sharon wrote: >
>Is this a sexually transmitted disease and does it lie dormant in the
>body..What test for the male partner is available..My husband and I have
>a completly monogamus
>relationship so we are puzzled by the implications of this diagnosis.

Sharon-

Acute cervicitis is simply the medical term for inflammation of the cervix. This is an extremely common diagnosis that usually has nothing at all to do with sexually transmitted diseases. The cervix has a tough job. It provides a barrier against bacteria entering the uterus and tubes, gets pushed around a lot during sexual intercourse, and is exposed to such things as menstrual flow, tampons, diaphragms, etc. So, it makes sense that the cervix is often a little "inflammed."

Most acute cervicitis is noted on a Pap smear and is actually a microscopic diagnosis. More significant forms of inflammation are visible to the naked eye during a pelvic exam, and show up as mild to moderate redness around the cervix. This can be caused by certain infections (such as yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, trichomonis, and even severe gonorrhea or chlamydia).

Unless there is spotting after intercourse or similar complaints, or obvious infection is seen during a pelvic exam, most health care providers do not try to treat mild inflammation of the cervix since it's just about impossible to prevent the cervix from having mild inflammation.

If in doubt, please see your health care provider for a pelvic exam so he or she can evaluate this.

Best of luck,

--
Ashley Hill
D. Ashley Hill, M.D.
Assistant Director, Department of Ob/Gyn
Florida Hospital Family Practice Residency
Orlando, FL
dahmd@gate.net

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