What causes cervical erosion?

Cervical erosion refers to the displacement of the cervical columnar epithelium, which may be caused by increased sexual activity, changes in hormone levels, infection factors, childbirth and miscarriage, long-term use of hormone drugs, etc. It is recommended to seek medical treatment in time.

1. Increased sexual activity: With the onset and frequency of sexual life, the cervix is ​​stimulated, which may cause the columnar epithelium to shift toward the surface of the cervix. For young women, cervical columnar epithelium ectopia usually disappears on its own as the childbearing age increases.

2. Changes in hormone levels: During puberty, menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause, changes in hormone levels can affect the junction of the columnar epithelium and squamous epithelium of the cervix. No special treatment is required, and usually as hormone levels stabilize, cervical columnar epithelium ectopia will recover on its own.

3. Infection factors: Certain sexually transmitted infections, such as human papillomavirus infection, may cause cervical columnar epithelium ectopia. For cervical columnar epithelium ectopia caused by HPV, HPV testing and treatment may be required, as well as prevention of reinfection.

4. Childbirth and abortion: Childbirth and abortion may cause damage to the cervix, and the columnar epithelium may shift to the surface of the cervix. Cervical columnar epithelium ectopia after childbirth and abortion usually recovers on its own, but sometimes it may require treatment by a doctor.

5. Long-term use of hormone drugs: Long-term use of contraceptives containing estrogen or hormone replacement therapy may affect the junction of the columnar epithelium and squamous epithelium of the cervix. For cervical columnar epithelial ectopia caused by hormone drugs, you should consult and evaluate whether the medication needs to be adjusted.

Cervical columnar epithelial ectopy itself usually does not require special treatment, but if it is accompanied by abnormal bleeding, abnormal discharge, or risk of HPV infection, you should see a doctor promptly. Your doctor may recommend a cervical smear test or other tests to rule out cervical cancer or other cervical lesions. In some cases, if cervical columnar epithelial ectopy is accompanied by inflammation or other complications, your doctor may recommend treatment.