CERVICAL ECTROPION

Overview and Facts

Cervical ectropion, also known as cervical ectopy, occurs when the soft cells that line inside the cervical canal expand to the cervix’s outermost layer. Typically, the outer layer of the cervix makes up hard cells, known as epithelial cells. 

Cervical erosion is a term used to describe this problem. That term is not only intimidating but also deceiving. Your cervix isn’t deteriorating, so you can breathe. 

Cervical ectropion, on the other hand, is a common problem among pregnant women. It isn’t malignant, and it does not affect fertility. It is not, in reality, an illness. Nonetheless, it can be troublesome for some females.

Types and Symptoms

SYMPTOMS

If you’re like the majority of women who have cervical ectropion, you won’t notice any symptoms. Surprisingly, you might not even be aware that you have it until you undergo a pelvic exam with your gynecologist.

If you do have symptoms, they are most likely to be as follows:

  • Light mucus discharge
  • Bleeding and pain after and during sexual intercourse
  • Spotting between periods

During or after a pelvic exam, bleeding and pain might occur.

Also, if you have bleeding between menstruation, irregular discharge, or pain either during sex, visit your doctor. Cervical ectropion is not a serious condition. These signs and symptoms, on the other hand, could be the result of a different illness that has to be diagnosed or treated. Some of these include:

  • Uterine, cervical, or other kinds of cancer
  • Polyps or fibroids
  • Infection
  • Issues with your pregnancy
  • Issues with your IUD

Diagnosis & Medications

DIAGNOSIS

A normal pelvic examination and Pap smear are likely to present cervical ectropion. Your cervix will seem bright red and rougher than typical during a pelvic exam, indicating the condition. Also, during the examination, it may bleed a little. 

Additionally, cervical cancer can be ruled out using a Pap test and colposcopy. If the results of the tests are clear, your doctor may prescribe more tests to consider all possible causes.

TREATMENT

There is no need for cervical ectropion treatment if your symptoms do not interfere with your daily activities. Furthermore, the majority of women have only had a few signs and symptoms. The condition may also go away on its own at times.

If you do have symptoms, your doctor may treat them using:

  • Cauterization of the area to prevent bleeding and discharge
  • Medications to manage symptoms

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