Cervicitis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Banam Sravanthi , Gynecologists

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Cervicitis is a common condition that means the cervix, the lower, narrow part of the uterus that connects to the vagina, is inflamed. Some people notice symptoms like unusual vaginal discharge, pelvic pain, or bleeding between periods, but others may not have any symptoms at all.

Most often, cervicitis is caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia or gonorrhea. However, it can also happen from other causes, such as allergies, irritation from products like douches or spermicides, or physical injury.

If cervicitis isn’t treated, it can lead to serious problems like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), difficulties getting pregnant, or pregnancy complications.

That’s why it’s important to get checked regularly by your doctor. Early diagnosis and proper treatment, usually with antibiotics if an infection is the cause, can help prevent long-term issues.

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What Is Cervicitis?

Cervicitis is the medical term for inflammation of the cervix, the opening to the uterus located at the top of the vagina. When the cervix becomes inflamed, it can appear red, swollen, and may bleed easily. The condition can be caused by infections, most commonly STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, or herpes, or by non-infectious irritants such as chemical products, allergic reactions, or physical injury.

In some cases, the inflammation causes symptoms such as:

However, many people with cervicitis do not notice any symptoms at all. That’s why regular pelvic exams and STI screenings are important, even if you feel fine.

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What Are the Cervicitis Symptoms?

Cervicitis often doesn’t cause any clear symptoms. Many people only learn they have it during a regular pelvic exam or while being tested for something else. But when symptoms do occur, they can cause discomfort and affect your daily life and reproductive health.

Common signs and symptoms of cervicitis may include:

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What Are the Common Causes of Cervicitis?

Cervicitis can happen for many different reasons, and it’s more common than most people think. It occurs when the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina, becomes inflamed. This inflammation can be caused by infections, irritation, or allergic reactions.

While sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are the most common cause, everyday products or devices that touch the vaginal area can also lead to cervicitis.

Knowing what causes cervicitis is important to help treat it properly and to prevent it from coming back.

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

The most common cause of cervicitis is infection, particularly from sexually transmitted infections. These bacteria or viruses can infect the cervical tissue during unprotected sexual contact. STIs linked to cervicitis include:

These infections may cause inflammation, irritation and an increased risk of transmission if left untreated.

Bacterial Imbalance

Cervicitis can also be caused by an overgrowth of bacteria that normally live in the vagina, a condition called bacterial vaginosis. This happens when the natural balance of bacteria is upset, allowing harmful bacteria to grow and cause infection or inflammation.

Allergic Reactions or Sensitivities

Some cases of cervicitis result from allergic reactions to products used in or around the vagina, including:

These substances can irritate or inflame the cervical tissue, even in the absence of infection.

Chemical or Physical Irritation

In some cases, physical objects or devices used inside the vagina can irritate the cervix, especially with prolonged or improper use. Examples include:

Frequent or prolonged use of these devices, especially if not cleaned or used properly, can trigger chronic inflammation.

What Are the Types of Cervicitis?

Cervicitis is generally classified into two main types they are acute and chronic, depending on how quickly it develops and how long it lasts. Understanding the difference between these types can help guide the right diagnosis and treatment plan.

Acute Cervicitis

This type comes on suddenly and is often caused by an infection, usually a sexually transmitted infection (STI) like chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, or herpes.

Common features of acute cervicitis:

Getting treated early helps prevent complications and clears the infection faster.

Chronic Cervicitis

Chronic cervicitis lasts longer, sometimes for several months, and often isn’t caused by an infection. Instead, it may be due to long-term irritation or allergic reactions.

Common causes include:

Because it may go unnoticed, chronic cervicitis is often found during routine pelvic examination. Treatment may involve removing the source of irritation, using medications, or, in some cases, a minor medical procedure to remove affected tissue.

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How Is Cervicitis Diagnosed?

Cervicitis is typically diagnosed during a routine gynecological visit. Because symptoms can be mild or even absent, your healthcare provider relies on a combination of a physical exam and lab tests to confirm the diagnosis and identify the underlying cause.

Here’s what usually happens during the diagnostic process:

Pelvic Exam

Your doctor will first perform a pelvic exam to check for signs of inflammation, redness, tenderness, or unusual discharge. A tool called a speculum is gently inserted into the vagina to allow a clear view of the cervix and vaginal walls.

They may look for:

Sample Collection (Swab Test)

Similar to a Pap smear, your provider will use a small swab or brush to collect samples of fluid from your cervix or vaginal walls. These samples are sent to a lab to check for:

Additional Testing

In some cases, your provider may request:

Accurate diagnosis helps determine whether cervicitis is caused by an infection, irritation, or another underlying issue. This allows your doctor to tailor the right treatment, whether it’s antibiotics, lifestyle changes, or further investigation.

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What Are the Treatment Options for Cervicitis?

Treatment for cervicitis depends on what’s causing the inflammation. In many cases, it's caused by an infection, usually a sexually transmitted infection (STI), but it can also result from non-infectious factors like irritation or allergies. A proper diagnosis is the first step toward choosing the right treatment.

Treatment for Infection-Related Cervicitis

If a bacterial or viral infection causes cervicitis, your doctor will typically prescribe medication to clear up the infection and reduce symptoms.

Common medications include:

Important: If an STI is the cause, both you and your sexual partner(s) will need to be treated to prevent reinfection. Avoid sexual contact until treatment is complete and your doctor confirms it's safe.

Treatment for Non-Infectious Cervicitis

If cervicitis is caused by an allergic reaction or irritant (like latex condoms, douches, or spermicides), treatment usually involves removing or avoiding the trigger. Once the irritant is eliminated, the inflammation typically improves on its own.

In cases where cervicitis is caused by a foreign object (such as a tampon or diaphragm left in too long), your healthcare provider will remove it and may prescribe medication if there’s any resulting infection or inflammation.

Follow-Up and Healing Time

Most cases of cervicitis improve within 1 to 2 weeks after starting treatment. However, it’s important to:

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When to See a Doctor for Cervicitis?

Cervicitis is inflammation of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It’s often caused by infections (like STIs), allergic reactions, or irritation.

You should see a doctor if you experience:

Some women may have no symptoms at all. That’s why regular gynecological checkups are important, especially if you’re sexually active or have had STIs in the past.

Important: Cervicitis can lead to complications if left untreated, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or fertility problems. If you’re pregnant, it may increase the risk of complications like early labor.

What Are the Complications of Cervicitis?

Cervicitis is generally easy to treat and isn’t life-threatening when found early. But if it’s left untreated, especially if caused by infections like chlamydia or gonorrhea, it can lead to serious health issues.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

If cervicitis isn’t treated, it can lead to a serious condition called pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). This happens when the infection spreads from the cervix to other reproductive organs like the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries.

PID can cause:

Increased Risk of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

An inflamed or irritated cervix can make it easier for viruses and bacteria to enter your body. If cervicitis is left untreated, it may raise your risk of contracting or spreading other STIs, including HIV.

Pregnancy Complications

In some cases, cervicitis during pregnancy, especially if linked to an untreated infection, may increase the risk of:

That’s why regular prenatal care and STI testing are so important if you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

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What Precautions Can Help Prevent Cervicitis?

While you can’t always prevent cervicitis completely, there are several simple steps you can take to greatly reduce your risk, especially when it comes to avoiding infections and irritants that may trigger inflammation.

Here’s how to protect your cervical health:

Practice Safe Sex

Most cases of cervicitis are caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so protecting yourself during sexual activity is key.

Avoid Vaginal Irritants

Certain personal care products can irritate the cervix and increase the risk of cervicitis, especially if used frequently.

Take Care of Your General Health

Good overall health can help reduce your risk of infections.

Get Timely Treatment for STIs

If you or your partner is diagnosed with an STI:

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Dos and Don’ts for Managing Cervicitis

If you’ve been diagnosed with cervicitis, taking the right steps at home can help you heal faster and avoid complications. Along with medical treatment, it's important to follow certain habits that support your recovery and prevent the infection from getting worse or coming back.

Here’s a simple guide on what you should and shouldn’t do while managing cervicitis. These tips can help reduce symptoms, protect your reproductive health, and keep you feeling better every day.

Cervicitis can cause irritation and other skin infection problems. Follow the above tips to prevent this infection.

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Our Experience Treating Cervicitis at Medicover

At Medicover, we understand how cervical health is closely linked to your overall well-being. Our expert gynecologists offer confidential, compassionate care to diagnose and treat cervicitis effectively.

We provide:

Whether your condition is caused by an infection, irritation, or hormone imbalance, we’re here to support you with respectful, high-quality care every step of the way.

At Medicover, we’re committed to helping women protect their reproductive health with comfort, clarity, and expert guidance.