| ENCYCLOPEDIA INDEX |
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Injury Disease Nutrition Poison Symptoms Surgery Test |
| A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z |
Cervicitis |
| Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention |
| Alternative Names: |
| Cervical inflammation; Inflammation - cervix |
| Treatment: |
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Infectious causes are treated with prescription medication (antibiotics or antifungals). Medications may be taken orally (by mouth) or applied in the vagina (cream or lotion). Hormonal therapy may be initiated, especially in postmenopausal women. Cryosurgery, electrocauterization, and laser therapy are other treatment options that may be considered, if less invasive measures are not successful. |
| Expectations (prognosis): |
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Simple cervicitis typically heals with treatment if the cause is adequately identified and treatment is available for that specific cause. |
| Complications: |
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Chronic (long-term) cervicitis may develop and persist for months to years. Cervicitis may be a causative factor in dyspareunia (pain with intercourse). |
| Calling your health care provider: |
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Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you are a woman, age 20 or older, and have had no prior pelvic examination and Pap smear. Call for an appointment with the health care provider if you have not obtained a pelvic exam and Pap smear at the recommended intervals. Typical recommendations are:
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Female reproductive anatomy |
Cervicitis |
Uterus |
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