What are the causes and symptoms of cervical erosion?

The main causes of cervical erosion include physiological factors, infection and hormonal changes, which may cause abnormalities on the surface of the cervix and trigger a series of symptoms.

1. Physiological factors: Cervical erosion is sometimes a normal physiological phenomenon, especially during adolescence or pregnancy. Due to changes in hormone levels, the cervical columnar epithelium is everted, which looks similar to erosion. This situation usually does not require special treatment, and the symptoms may subside on their own as hormone levels stabilize.

2. Infection: Bacterial, viral or fungal infections, such as human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, may cause cervical inflammation, which in turn leads to erosion. Cervical erosion caused by infection is often accompanied by symptoms such as increased discharge, odor, itching or pain. Treatments include the use of antibiotics, antiviral drugs or antifungal drugs, such as azithromycin, interferon or fluconazole.

3. Hormone changes: Long-term use of hormone drugs, such as birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy, may affect the normal structure of cervical tissue and cause erosion. Reducing the use of hormone drugs or adjusting the medication regimen, combined with local use of hormone regulating drugs, such as estradiol ointment or progesterone soft capsules, can help improve symptoms.

Common symptoms of cervical erosion include:

Abnormal vaginal discharge: Increased volume, unusual color, or odor.

Vaginal bleeding: bleeding between periods or after sexual intercourse.

Lower abdominal or lumbosacral pain: Mild to moderate pain that may be constant or intermittent.

If the above symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention in time for gynecological examination, cervical smear and HPV test to make a clear diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Maintaining good personal hygiene habits, avoiding unclean sexual behavior, and regular gynecological examinations can help prevent and early detect cervical erosion and related problems.