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Cervicitis

By

The Manual's Editorial Staff

Reviewed/Revised Apr 2023
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What is the cervix?

Your cervix is the lower part of your uterus at the top of your vagina. Your vagina connects your uterus (where a baby grows when you're pregnant) to the outside of your body.

The Uterus, Cervix, and Cervical Canal
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What is cervicitis?

What causes cervicitis?

Infections that causes cervicitis

Other causes of cervicitis

  • Objects left in your vagina too long, such as diaphragms

  • Chemicals in douches or birth control creams

  • Use of latex condoms, if you have a latex allergy

What are the symptoms of cervicitis?

How can my doctor tell if I have cervicitis?

Your doctor will suspect cervicitis based on your symptoms. To tell for sure, your doctor will do a pelvic exam. During a pelvic exam, your doctor looks inside your vagina, holding it open with a small instrument called a speculum. Doctors will:

  • Take a sample of any discharge for testing

  • Touch your cervix with a cotton swab to see if it bleeds easily

How will my doctor treat cervicitis?

Your doctor may tell you to:

  • Stop having sex until you're done with your medicine and your infection gets better

  • Ask your sex partner to get tested for STIs

After 3 to 6 months, your doctor will test you again to see if your infection has gone away.

How can I prevent cervicitis?

You can't always prevent cervicitis. To lower your risk:

  • Have sex with only one partner

  • Use condoms during sex

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