Inflammation of the Cervix: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
Cervicitis is often caused by treatable STIs like chlamydia or gonorrhoea. Early diagnosis prevents serious complications including infertility. Get tested today.
Cervicitis is inflammation of the cervix (the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina). It's commonly caused by sexually transmitted infections, particularly chlamydia and gonorrhoea, though it can also result from non-infectious causes. Many women with cervicitis have no symptoms, making regular STI screening essential for sexually active women.
Cervicitis is diagnosed through pelvic examination where the cervix appears red, swollen, or has visible discharge. We perform swab tests to identify the causative organism - PCR testing for chlamydia and gonorrhoea is essential. Testing for other STIs including HIV and syphilis is also recommended.
Treatment depends on the cause. Antibiotic therapy is given for bacterial infections - often empirically covering both chlamydia and gonorrhoea while awaiting results. Partners must be tested and treated to prevent reinfection. For non-infectious cervicitis, removing the irritant and allowing time for healing is usually sufficient.
Yes, if left untreated. Cervicitis caused by chlamydia or gonorrhoea can ascend to cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can scar the fallopian tubes and lead to infertility or ectopic pregnancy. Early treatment prevents these complications.
If your cervicitis is caused by an STI, your partner(s) must be tested and treated, even if they have no symptoms. Otherwise, you risk reinfection. We can provide partner notification support.
With appropriate antibiotic treatment for infectious cervicitis, symptoms typically improve within a few days, though you should complete the full course. Complete healing usually occurs within 1-2 weeks. Avoid sex until treatment is complete.
Yes, cervicitis can recur, especially if you're re-exposed to an STI, if partners weren't treated, or if you have ongoing risk factors. Regular screening and partner treatment are essential for prevention.
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Still burning after STI treatment is more common than many people realise. Residual inflammation, irritation from medication, reinfection, or an entirely separate condition could each play a role.
Chlamydia symptoms typically begin to improve within one to two weeks following antibiotic treatment. Understanding what is normal during recovery and when retesting may be appropriate can help provide reassurance.
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