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Cervical erosion    See images

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention

Alternative names:

Cervical ulceration; Ectropion

Definition:

Cervical erosion is a partial or complete absence of the squamous epithelium (surface) of the cervix. The normal tissue on the surface of the cervix and/or around the os (mouth of the cervix), is replaced by inflamed tissue from within the cervical canal. This endocervical tissue is red and granular, so it gives the cervix a red, eroded, and infected appearance.

Causes and Risks

Cervical erosion may be caused by trauma (through intercourse, tampon insertion, foreign objects in the vagina, or speculum insertion), or infection (herpes, early syphilis, tampons that were not removed, severe vaginal infections), and sometimes chemicals (spermaticidal contraceptive creams or foams, douches).

There is an increased risk associated with vaginal use of chemical agents or multiple sexual partners; however, the condition is seen in women without these risk factors.

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