Cervical erosion

Alternative names:

cervical ulceration

Treatment:

The treatment is dependent on the cause. Infections may require prescription medications. Erosion caused by trauma or chemicals may only require avoiding further trauma or chemical exposure and allowing time for the cervical surface to heal. Cauterization is also used on occasion.

Expectations (prognosis):

Cervical erosion usually heals on its own. Treatment, if necessary is usually very successful.

Complications:

• May be an early sign of cervical cancer

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you are a woman who is sexually active or over 20 years of age, and have never had a prior pelvic examination and Pap smear.

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have not obtained a Pap smear at recommended intervals of

• every year initially.
• for women up to age 35 or 40: every 2 to 3 years after having 3 negative, consecutive annual Pap smear tests and a single sexual partner or no sexual partner.
• every year for women over 35 or 40.
• every year for women who have had multiple sexual partners.
• every year for women who are taking oral contraceptives (birth control pills).
• every 6 months for women who have a history of HPV (genital warts).
• every 6 months for women who were prenatally exposed to DES.
• the frequency recommended after an abnormal Pap smear.