Cervicitis

Alternative names:

cervical inflammation; inflammation of the cervix

Treatment:

Infectious causes are treated with prescription medication (antibiotics or antifungals). Medications may be taken orally (by mouth) or applied topically (cream or lotion). Hormonal therapy may be initiated, especially in postmenopausal women. Cryosurgery, electrocauterization, and laser therapy are other treatment options that may be considered if less invasive measures are not successful.

Expectations (prognosis):

Simple cervicitis typically heals with treatment if the cause is adequately identified and treatment is available for that specific cause.

Complications:

Chronic (long-term) cervicitis may develop and persist for months to years. Cervicitis may be the causative factor in dyspareunia (pain with intercourse), and spontaneous abortion (miscarriage).

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you are a woman, 20 years old or older, and have had no prior pelvic examination and Pap smear.

Call for an appointment with the health care provider if you have not obtained a pelvic exam and Pap smear at the recommended intervals. Typical recommendations are:

• 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.