Cervicitis is the inflammation of the lining of the cervix (which is the mouth of the vagina).

Raise the Red Flag…

…when you find any of these symptoms.

• Non-menstrual bleeding
• Continuous vaginal discharge
• Painful penetration
• Post-sex bleeding

You could also experience painful urination, in case the infection spreads to the urethra (from where urine is passed).

However, according to Gynaecologist Dr. Hitesh Parikh, "Sometimes cervicitis can be asymptomatic too. Only when teamed with other issues like STIs or sex, the symptoms appear."

The Whys

According to Dr. Parikh, a bacterial or fungal infection is the commonest reason for cervicitis. Apart from that, it could be caused due to;

• In pregnancy, cervicitis could happen due to hormonal changes.
• If you have low immunity levels, it will be difficult to get rid of the bacteria and fungi that is responsible for cervicitis.
• Sexual relations. For example, if your partner is infected with virus, bacteria, or HVP, he can pass it to you through infected semen. If these are passed on to you, you could have cervicitis.
• Swimming in a dirty pool.
• Condom allergies
• Dirty linen or undergarments

Apart from that, STIs like Chlamydia and gonorrhoea can also cause cervicitis.

Risky Business

Since cervicitis can be asymptomatic, you might not know that you have this problem until a later stage.

But inform a doctor as soon as you spot any symptom. Cervicitis can become chronic and the infection can spread to the other parts of your genital system.

For instance, if it spreads to the urethra, it could lead to urethritis.

According to Gynaecologist, Dr. Anita Soni, "Infertility chances are raised when, due to cervicitis, your cervical mucous is not healthy anymore. Due to the infection and inflammation, the cervical mucous becomes impenetrable for the sperms, resulting in secondary infertility."

If cervicitis becomes chronic and spreads to other parts, there is a greater chance of cervical cancer.

Get to the Bottom

Visit your gynaecologist for a physical examination to diagnose the problem. Apart from this, your doctor may also advise a biopsy test.

If you have been detected with a chronic stage of cervicitis, then immediately get a Pap smear test done to eliminate any traces of cervical cancer.

Treat It!

Your gynaecologist will prescribe antibiotics, anti fungal and anti bacterial medicines and you can be fully cured.

However, make sure your partner also takes the medicines so that he does not re-infect you. Apart from that, make sure that you get treated for any STIs that you have. Also, keep your genital area clean. This should be done especially during the summers, when your sensitive genital skin is prone to inflammation.