Cervix Disorders

What is a cervix disorder?

A cervix disorder is a problem with your cervix. The cervix is part of the female reproductive system. It is the lower, narrow end of the uterus (womb), which opens into the vagina (birth canal). The cervix has a small opening that expands during childbirth. It also allows menstrual blood to leave your body.

You may not have any symptoms of a cervix disorder, but routine pelvic exams and a Pap smear test can help determine if you may need treatment.

Cervix disorders can include:

• Cervical cancer is a cancer that starts in the cells of the cervix.
• Cervicitis is swelling of the cervix. An infection usually causes it, but it can also be caused by skin irritation. Treatment can help you avoid potential complications like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
• Cervical incompetence (also called cervical insufficiency) can happen during pregnancy. The opening of your cervix widens too early. This may cause you to give birth too soon, or you could lose the fetus.
• Cervical polyps and cysts are fleshy or fluid-filled growths on your cervix. These growths are usually benign (not cancer). They are more common during your reproductive years, especially after age 20.

Who is more likely to develop cervix disorders?

You are more likely to develop a cervix disorder if:

• You've had a previous cervical procedure or surgery.
• You've had a sexually transmitted infection (STI) such as chlamydia or gonorrhea.
• You used a latex condom or a feminine product such as a spermicide or douche that irritated the skin of your vagina.
• You left something in your vagina too long, such as a diaphragm, tampon, or cervical cap, and it caused irritation.
• You don't consistently use a condom when you have sex, or you have multiple sex partners.

What are the symptoms of cervix disorders?

You may not know that something is wrong since cervix disorders may not have any symptoms. If you have symptoms, they may vary based on the cervix disorder.

Symptoms can include:

• Vaginal bleeding that's not normal for you, such as bleeding between menstrual periods
• Pain during sex or a pelvic exam
• Abnormal vaginal discharge

If you are pregnant, a few signs of an incompetent cervix could include light vaginal bleeding, a feeling of pelvic pressure, or mild cramps. But you may not have any signs.

How are cervix disorders diagnosed?

Even if you don't have symptoms, your health care provider may notice changes to the cells of your cervix during a pelvic exam. Your provider may look for:

• Redness or inflammation (swelling) of your cervix or vaginal walls
• Vaginal discharge or strong odor

Your provider may perform a Pap test to look for changes in your cervix.

What are the treatments for cervix disorders?

The treatment for cervix disorders depends on the cause. It might include antibiotics or stopping using a product that causes skin irritation.

If you have had an incompetent cervix in the past, you might take medicine or have ultrasound imaging tests to check how your pregnancy is going.

Can cervix disorders be prevented?

You can take steps to prevent some cervix disorders. This can include to:

• Use a condom every time you have sex. Correct usage of latex condoms greatly reduces, but does not completely eliminate, the risk of catching or spreading STIs. If you or your partner is allergic to latex, you can use polyurethane condoms.
• Have regular pelvic exams.
• Get tested for STIs as needed.
• Avoid using personal care products that may cause skin irritation to your vagina.