Why is the cervix red. Symptoms and signs. Acute inflammation of the cervix: symptoms

Diseases of the cervix in gynecology are one of the main reasons for visiting a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. At the same time, specialists do not observe a tendency to reduce their number. Basically, these pathologies are characteristic of young, sexually active women who are in reproductive age.

CERVIX

Anatomy

The cervix in women is a kind of connecting tube between the uterus and the vagina, the length is 3-4 cm, its diameter is approximately 2.5 cm. Two parts are distinguished from the cervix: lower and upper. Bottom part It is called vaginal, because it protrudes into the vaginal cavity, and the upper one is called supravaginal, because it is located above the vagina. Inside the cervix passes the cervical canal, which opens into the uterine cavity with an internal pharynx. Mucous cervical canal forms folds. In addition to the folds, there are numerous branching tubular glands. Sometimes they can become clogged and cysts are formed (naboth follicles or cysts of the net glands).

NORMAL, HEALTHY CERVICE

Outside, the surface of the cervix has a pinkish tint, it is smooth and shiny, durable, and from the inside it is bright pink, velvety and loose. The mucous membrane of the vaginal part of the cervix is ​​normally covered with stratified squamous epithelium, with simple colposcopy its surface is pale pink, shiny, in the second half menstrual cycle becomes slightly cyanotic. After treatment with a 3% solution of acetic acid, the mucous membrane turns pale, then again evenly turns into a pale pink color. The vascular pattern is uniform. Lugol's solution evenly stains the neck in a dark Brown color.

Photo of the cervix (normal)

cervix pathology

The main and most common among the diseases of this localization is cervical erosion or ectopia.

True erosion of the cervix with a simple colposcopy is a section of the mucous membrane, devoid of epithelial cover, with clear protruding edges; the bottom of the erosion is uneven, bumpy, bright red, in places with loose necrotic overlays. Treatment of the mucous membrane with a 3% solution of acetic acid does not change the colposcopic picture. When applying Lugol's solution, the area devoid of epithelium does not stain

Congenital ectopia (the location of the border between the stratified squamous and columnar epithelium on outer surface the vaginal part of the cervix) often accompanies the underdevelopment of the internal genital organs. With a simple colposcopy, this pathology of the cervix has the appearance of a bright red area, of a regular round shape, located around the external os; with extended colposcopy, the area of ​​ectopy with clear, even boundaries is evenly covered with cylindrical epithelium, there are no transformation zones (areas of replacement of one type of epithelium by another). The area of ​​congenital ectopia is not stained with Lugol's solution

Acquired ectopia, or pseudo-erosion, is characterized by a varied colposcopic picture, especially striking changes are detected after treatment with a 3% solution of acetic acid. Often, on the outer surface of the vaginal part, areas of cylindrical epithelium displaced from the cervical canal are bright pink, with a granular surface formed by rounded or oblong papillae, in which terminal vascular loops are sometimes clearly visible.

In every fourth observation of cervical disease in dynamics, acquired ectopia is combined with exocervix hypertrophy, in every third - with a pronounced inflammatory component (bright hyperemia of the surface, enhanced vascular pattern, petechial hemorrhages). When treated with Lugol's solution, unstained areas of the cylindrical epithelium are observed on a dark brown background, which makes it possible to clearly determine the localization of the process.

Ectopia of the cervix is ​​one of the diseases united by the term "background pathology". By themselves, such painful conditions do not lead to the development of cervical cancer, however, against their background, the risk of developing malignant neoplasms rises.

PRECANCER AND BACKGROUND DISEASES OF THE CERVIC - LIST

1. Erosed ectropion characterized by a combination of acquired ectopia with old ruptures of the cervix during childbirth and its cicatricial changes as a result of previous surgical interventions (for example, suturing, biopsy, diathermocoagulation). An eroded ectropion may be accompanied by severe deformity and hypertrophy.

2. Foci of endometriosis have an irregular oval shape, pink, red or bluish-purple color, protrude above the surface of the mucous membrane. Their sizes often change during the menstrual cycle. With extended colposcopy, the color of endometriosis foci on the exocervix does not change.

3. Polyps of the cervical canal- these are diseases resulting from excessive growth of a section of the mucous membrane with or without an underlying stroma. They are determined with the naked eye in the form of rounded or lobular formations of red or pink color in the cervical canal. With extended colposcopy, it is possible to establish the type of epithelium covering the polyp. Polyps are often combined with endometrial hyperplastic processes. Polyps of the mucous membrane of the cervical canal are connective tissue outgrowths covered with the surrounding epithelium.

4. Erythroplakia(translated from Greek - “red spot”) implies the processes of local atrophy and dyskeratosis of the stratified squamous epithelium with a sharp thinning while maintaining a normal epithelial cover in the adjacent areas of the ectocervix. When viewed with the help of vaginal mirrors, it is irregularly shaped areas of hyperemia, which bleed easily when touched. Colposcopically, a sharply thinned squamous epithelium is determined in this area, through which the underlying tissue is visible. The surface of erythroplakia turns pale when treated with a solution of acetic acid; it does not stain with Lugol's solution. Treatment of this disease female cervix The uterus consists in the destruction of the focus by diathermocoagulation, conization, cryodestruction or radio wave surgery.

5. Leukoplakia is a background disease of the cervix and, when viewed in the mirrors, has the appearance of a white spot or a dense rough plaque, firmly associated with the underlying tissue and not disappearing after drying the mucous membrane of the exocervix with a swab. Colposcopy reveals horny overlays with a rough, folded or scaly surface in the area of ​​the spots. Sometimes the thickened epithelium is partially desquamated and under it a surface with a reddish tint is found - the basis of leukoplakia, which does not protrude above the mucous membrane. With pronounced proliferation, the papillary base of leukoplakia can be determined, with a papillary surface rising above the unchanged mucosa. After treatment with a 3% solution of acetic acid, the areas of the base of leukoplakia turn pale and come to light more clearly. Areas are not stained with Lugol's solution.

This pathology of the cervix is ​​not accompanied by any symptoms. A cytological study does not reliably differentiate between simple leukoplakia and leukoplakia with atypia, since cells taken from the surface of the epithelium do not reflect the processes occurring in the basal layers; a biopsy of the cervix with a histological examination is necessary. Treatment of the disease is carried out individually, depending on the type of leukoplakia, its size, as well as age and reproductive function female patients.

6. Atypical transformation zone(dysplasia, or precancerous condition of the cervix) is a combination of various changes in the epithelium. Under dysplasia, or cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) is meant the processes of structural and cellular atypia (violation of cell differentiation) with a violation of the layering of the epithelium without involving the basement membrane. According to the WHO classification (1995), mild, moderate and severe dysplasia are distinguished.

The colposcopic picture is varied. Against the background of whitish or hyperemic areas, areas of leukoplakia and its varieties, erythroplakia, iodine-negative zones, fields of atypical epithelium, rising above the level of the mucous membrane, with keratinization of the glands and vascular atypia are determined. The most suspicious in relation to malignancy are glands that have a wide border with a dull tint around the mouth of the duct. Atypical vessels have a corkscrew appearance, do not contract under the action of acetic acid. A pronounced atypical transformation zone can be distinguished from intraepithelial neoplasia of the cervix only by histological examination.

Precancer and cervical cancer have common etiology and pathogenesis and human papillomavirus are currently considered the cause of these diseases. The virus is found in 90% of cases of moderate, severe dysplasia and cervical cancer.

7. Cervical cancer, the most dangerous of diseases, colposcopically has the appearance of edematous vitreous areas with outgrowths various shapes, on which convoluted atypical vessels are randomly located. They do not anastomose with each other, have a bizarre shape (corkscrew-shaped, hairpin-shaped, in the form of loops, varicose veins, etc.), are functionally defective, do not have a muscular layer and resemble embryonic capillaries in structure.

Photo of the cervix (pathology)

cervical erosion	cervicitis
Cervical cancer	Naboth cysts	Polyp

DIAGNOSTICS OF DISEASES OF THE CERVIC

The main methods for examining the condition and diagnosing the pathology of exo- and endocervix in gynecology are:

• Examination of the cervix in the mirrors,
• Colposcopy (advanced and video),
• Oncocytology of the cervix,
• cervical biopsy,
• HPV tests (Digen test);
• Blood tumor markers.

WHERE TO GO FOR DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF THE CERVICAL IN MOSCOW

Interested in a cervical examination? Pass in Moscow complete diagnostics available at our medical center. At your service is a complete list of the necessary instrumental studies and analyzes for the diagnosis of diseases of the cervix and the detection of possible precancerous pathology.

Reception today:

Covered with stratified squamous epithelium cells. It consists of three layers: basal, intermediate and superficial. Any change in the maturation or differentiation of epithelial cells may be called dysplasia by doctors. This term is often used to refer to all precancerous conditions of the cervix.

Possible diseases

Physicians identify several pathological conditions which must be paid attention to. So, the so-called background processes are combined into a separate group. These include true erosion, simple leukoplakia, polyps, ectopia, erythroplakia of the cervix. Separately, a precancerous condition, which is called cervical intraepithelial neoplasia or dysplasia, is highlighted. It is important to understand that background and pre-carceral conditions have different pathogenesis.

But the origin and manifestation of precancerous conditions and cancer are similar. Many people cite HPV as one of the reasons. So, the presence of the human papillomavirus in the body is not a guarantee that there will definitely be cancer. But in those women who were found to have precancerous conditions of the cervix, HPV was still diagnosed in 90% of cases. But at the same time, it must be understood that out of more than 60 types of this virus, about 20 affect the genital organs, and 11 serotypes are considered highly oncogenic.

Papillomavirus

Most often, people are unaware that they have HPV in their body. In some, the disease proceeds in a latent form. This means that people are carriers of the virus, but they do not have any manifestations. In the subclinical form, cytological changes are diagnosed. Clinically expressed HPV is determined when exophytic and endophytic warts are visible.

The most common are the 16th and 18th papillomavirus serotypes. Infection, as a rule, goes completely unnoticed and is not accompanied by the appearance of any symptoms. But at the same time, the virus infects cells, it integrates into them genetic code, replication of infected items starts. This eventually leads to their degeneration and causes dysplasia or cancer.

But it is believed that an important role in the development of diseases is played by the individual susceptibility of the epithelium and birth defects protection mechanisms.

Characteristics of background processes

Gynecologists can diagnose a number of diseases of the cervix, which are characterized by specific changes. So, doctors distinguish true, congenital and false erosion.

Even in adolescent girls, a gynecologist can see a displacement of the cylindrical epithelium upon examination. After a colposcopy, it becomes clear that it is bright red in color. At the same time, it is impossible to color it with Lugol's solution. This condition is often referred to as pseudo-erosion or ectopia. It can be congenital or acquired. But these are not precancerous conditions of the cervix, so such erosions do not require treatment. You just need to watch them regularly.

If the patient's mucous membrane of the cervical canal turns into the vaginal part of the cervix, then this condition is called ectropion. This is a combination of scar tissue deformation of the cervix and pseudo-erosion. On examination, the doctor may see a deformed neck with a slit-like or gaping pharynx with red areas of the cylindrical epithelium. Often they can be with a transformation zone.

Another background process is leukoplakia, the name of the disease is translated as "white spot". With this disease locally keratinizes stratified epithelium. In this case, infiltrates form around the vessels of the stroma. Leukoplakia can be simple, then it is referred to as background processes. If, however, this disease appears, then we are already talking about precancer.

Another disease is erythroplakia, but it is quite rare. This name literally translates as "red spot". In this condition, the stratified epithelium atrophies, it becomes thinner to several layers. Intermediate cells disappear. Vessels shine through the thinned epithelium, so the areas look like red spots.

Also, during examination, the doctor can see outgrowths covered with epithelium. They are called polyps. These are bright pink formations that can be leaf-shaped or oblong. They hang from the cervix.

Causes of erosion

Often, problems can be detected during a routine examination or colposcopy. If the doctor sees changes, he can explain what causes cervical erosion. So, the most common reasons are:

Infectious diseases, among which the most common are chlamydia, trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, ureaplasmosis, genital herpes, papillomavirus;

Inflammatory diseases of the female genital organs;

Mechanical damage to the mucosa;

Hormonal changes.

As a result of changes, the stratified epithelium, the layers of which are poorly linked and loosely laid, is damaged and sloughed off in places. It has been observed that this occurs 5 times more often in women with menstrual irregularities, they may even have more cervical erosion. Instead of a desquamated layer, a cylindrical epithelium is formed.

Provoking factors are called cycle failures, frequent change of partners, early onset of sexual activity and reduced immunity. Many of those who have found these problems are interested in whether there are any restrictions if cervical erosion has been diagnosed. What can not be done with this disease? There are no hard limits. It is important to simply see a gynecologist regularly, go through everything necessary examinations and do not refuse the prescribed treatment.

Background process diagnostics

As a rule, women with an affected cervix do not complain about anything. There are no signs of erosion. Indeed, some have whitish discharge that do not cause any discomfort. After intercourse, there may be bloody issues or a sac. In this case, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. He is able to assess the condition, determine whether there is cervical erosion. The name of the disease in such a situation is more important for the doctor. The further tactics of treatment will depend on the identified problem.

On examination, pseudo-erosion looks like a red spot of irregular shape. It stands out against the background of pale mucosa. When conducting colposcopy, it becomes clear that the problem areas are covered with red papillae of a rounded or oblong shape, because of them the surface looks like velvet. Do not be afraid of colposcopy, it's just an examination with a special device that can enlarge the area by 30-40 times.

Diagnosis of a disease such as leukoplakia is also not difficult. In some patients, keratinized layers of cells are visible to the naked eye, they look like white plaques that rise on the ectocervix (the part of the cervix protruding into the vagina). In others, they can only be detected during colposcopy. To clarify the diagnosis, the cervical tissue can be treated with an iodine solution. The affected keratinized areas do not turn brown, they look like a surface covered with a whitish film. To determine the nature of leukoplakia (simple or with atypical cells), it is necessary to conduct a biopsy.

Also, during examination, the gynecologist can see cysts on the cervix. The reasons for their appearance are as follows:

Sexual infections that provoke the development of inflammatory diseases;

Injury to the neck during childbirth, abortion,;

Hormonal disorders.

Cysts look like sacs that are filled with mucus. They emerge from the overgrowth glands, which look like small white swellings. If there are failures in their work, then the ducts are closed. In the case when only one sac is visible during examination, it is called an endometriotic cyst. But there are times when there are several. In such situations, the doctor says that these are Nabothian cysts on the cervix. It is desirable to find out the reasons for their occurrence. After all, their appearance can be triggered by infections that need to be treated. As a rule, doctors recommend only one method of treatment - removal of cysts. This is done by puncturing the sac, removing viscous mucus and treating the place of its appearance.

Treatment tactics

In cases where the doctor discovers problems with the cervix, he should talk about what needs to be done next. So, first of all, the specialist will conduct a colposcopy, take material for cytological examination and, if necessary, suggest a biopsy. A full examination allows you to determine what causes cervical erosion. It is also important to make smears on the microflora, to identify if there are any infectious diseases. It is mandatory to find out if the patient has HIV, syphilis or viral hepatitis. In addition, the gynecologist can give a referral for an examination for the presence of trichomonas, ureaplasma, HPV, chlamydia, mycoplasma, gardnerella.

After that, you can start treatment. Depending on the size, causes of appearance and other factors, the gynecologist will offer to cauterize the cervix with current, do cryodestruction, laser coagulation, or use radio wave method.

In some cases, simply observing erosion is sufficient. This tactic is chosen in cases where it is found in young nulliparous girls. Most often, they are caused by hormonal changes.

Description of treatment methods

Moxibustion is one of the most common methods. But at the same time, the procedure has a lot side effects. As a result of cauterization, rough scars can form, the throat of the cervical canal can narrow. In addition, healing after the procedure takes a long time. But, despite all the shortcomings, they often use it to indicate that the procedure is unpleasant, but it cannot be called too painful. Many women simply talk about the feeling of discomfort in the lower abdomen. In addition, there may be vaginal discharge after the procedure.

The doctor must also warn of a number of restrictions. It must be mandatory for at least a month after the procedure. There are also restrictions on lifting weights - you can wear no more than 2 kg. The ban is imposed on visiting saunas, baths, taking baths, engaging in intense physical activity.

Cryosurgery often leads to a shortening of the cervix. In addition, as a result of the procedure, the cervical pharynx may narrow. It is impossible to call cryodestruction excessively painful, patients are more confused by the accompanying unpleasant odor.

Many prefer to use more modern ways, for example, a radio wave method for the treatment of cervical erosion. It is carried out by a special apparatus "Surgitron". The electrode located in it emits high-frequency waves, they form heat when they meet tissues. In this case, the cells seem to evaporate.

Also highly effective laser method treatment. Exposure to a beam of waves leads to the fact that pathologically altered cells are removed. In this case, the surrounding tissues are affected slightly. This method is considered the least traumatic.

Characteristics of dysplasia

Most often, precancerous conditions develop when traumatic lesions cervix. Particular care must be taken by those who have cervical erosion. Cancer against the background of it is unlikely to begin to develop, but the fields of dysplasia in some cases are found just against the background of pseudo-erosions.

Experts distinguish 3 stages of this disease. The first degree is called mild. With it, the deep layers are affected - the basal and parabasal layers. The upper layers remain normal. External signs diseases are absent. It can only be detected during cytology, while scraping should be taken deeply.

In the second degree - moderate dysplasia - changes can affect up to 2/3 of the epithelial cells. At this stage, there should be no abnormal cells.

At the third degree, maturation and differentiation of cells takes place only in the surface layer. The remaining layers are affected. More detailed examinations show the presence of cells with atypia.

Diagnosing dysplasia is not so easy. The disease proceeds without any pronounced signs, he has no characteristic symptoms. On examination, a gynecologist can determine ectopia, leukoplakia, and see papillomas. Sometimes with dysplasia it happens that the cervix is ​​not changed.

Diagnosis can be made with a smear taken from the cervix. If during the research it was found that the taken material contains cells with dikarosis (changes in the nuclei), then histology is necessary. It is made from materials taken during a biopsy.

Reasons for the development of dysplasia

In most cases, it is difficult to understand what became the basis for the appearance of problems with reproductive organs women. But there are a number of factors that can trigger the onset of the disease. So, for example, if a patient has stitches on the cervix, then there is a violation of the nutrition of her tissues. And this can be an impetus for the development of the disease.

Provoking factors also include:

Immune and hormonal disorders;

The presence of erosive foci - the transition zone between the flat and cylindrical epithelium, located on the outer part of the neck, is dangerous;

The presence in the body of a highly oncogenic type of HPV.

The risk factors are the following:

Earlier, the beginning of a girl's sexual life at a time when the epithelium is not yet normally formed;

Prolonged use of intrauterine and hormonal contraceptives;

Multiple births;

The presence of infections that are sexually transmitted;

Malnutrition with a deficiency of vitamins C, A and beta-carotene.

It has also been found that men's hygiene affects the appearance of these female diseases. Smegma that accumulates under foreskin, can cause the development of precancerous conditions of the cervix. This is due to the presence in it that, during intercourse, fall on the cervix.

Possible ways to get rid of the problem

The tactics of treatment directly depends on what degree of dysplasia was diagnosed. So, at the first stage, it is often recommended to simply observe the tissues in dynamics and carry out conservative treatment which aims to eliminate possible cause the appearance of the disease. As a rule, antiviral or antibacterial therapy is carried out, designed to eliminate infectious agents. In the absence of positive dynamics, as well as in cases where dysplasia of the 2nd or 3rd degree was immediately diagnosed, surgical treatment is recommended.

However, it can be carried out in the same way as the cervix. Reviews indicate that this method gives very good results. Cryosurgery may also be used laser treatment. In some cases, diathermoconization is used. This method consists in the fact that the altered tissues are excised in the form of a cone, the top of which is directed towards the internal os. The removed tissue sections are additionally sent for histology.

It is important to know that patients with dysplasia have a 10-20 times higher risk of developing cancer than those who do not have this problem. At the first stage, there is a possibility reverse development diseases - this occurs in about half of the cases. But in 40% of women it will progress, in the rest it will be in a state of stabilization.

Alternative medicine

Having heard an unpleasant diagnosis for themselves, not everyone agrees to treatment. traditional methods. Even if the doctor offers a fairly gentle and highly effective radio wave method for treating cervical erosion, there will be those who refuse the procedure.

Some start looking alternative methods. The most popular are douching with a diluted infusion of calendula (1 teaspoon per ¼ glass of water), eucalyptus (1 teaspoon diluted in a glass of water), tampons with sea ​​buckthorn oil or mummy.

But these are not all the options for how the cervix can be treated with folk remedies. Some healers recommend brewing St. John's wort for douching at the rate of 1 tbsp. l. for a half-liter jar of boiling water. The herb must be boiled for about 10 minutes and insisted for at least half an hour.

If you decide to refuse qualified help and will be treated by these methods, then regularly go to the gynecologist in order to monitor the condition of the cervix. Only in this way it will be possible to see the deterioration in time and try to correct the situation.

The lower part of the uterus that extends into the vagina is called the cervix. Like any tissue in the body, it is prone to inflammation. Redness of the cervix has various reasons some of which lead to serious complications.

The main causes of occurrence

A narrow passage, the cervix, also called the cervical canal, occupies the space from the vagina to the inside of the uterus. This closed part of the canal allows blood to flow from the uterus into menstrual period and penetrate the sperm inside, during intercourse. The passage opens wide only during childbirth.

The surface of the neck is covered with leathery cells. Throughout the cervical canal are cylindrical cells. Between them are small glands that produce mucus that fills the cervical canal. Mucus contains bactericidal substances that prevent infections from entering the uterus.

Inflammation of the mucosa and the occurrence of redness of the neck may depend on the presence of arterial and venous blood.

In the arterial form, a stream of pulsating blood rushes to the place of expansion of the arteries, which causes redness. This happens when active form development of diseases.

With venous hyperemia, the color of the mucous membrane of the cervix changes dramatically. It becomes dark red or purple. In this case, swelling appears in the neck, burning, itching.

Hyperemia is not a separate disease, it is a sign that indicates the presence of problems in the female genital organs. Many inflammatory processes develop asymptomatically for a long time, so the appearance of redness should be a cause for concern.

Possible causes of cervical irritation that cause erythema (redness):

• cervicitis;
• venereal disease;
• cervical cancer;
• cervical polyps and adhesions;
• pelvic inflammatory diseases;
• endometriosis;
• adhesion of chocolate cysts.

Often redness is not associated with infectious diseases. It may occur for the following reasons:

Sometimes during pregnancy, women experience hyperemia of the cervix.

Possible diseases

One of the most common causes redness of the cervix is ​​cervicitis.

Hyperemia of the cervix is ​​a consequence of other diseases, such as:

Sometimes redness is accompanied by vaginal bleeding, pain in the lower

parts of the abdomen and perineum and high blood pressure.

Single symptoms or their combination should serve as a reason for an urgent visit to the gynecologist.

Methods of treatment

Before starting the treatment of hyperemia, it is necessary to establish the main type of the disease. Therapy can be conservative and surgical.

Medical treatment prescribed by a doctor includes:

Some vaginal infections can be treated without medication by using folk remedies. You must first consult with your doctor. Their diagnosis will help determine the degree of development vaginal infection and the need for home remedies.

Surgical intervention carried out according to the doctor's indications, when redness indicates complex diseases, such as tumors.

Prevention measures

It is necessary to keep the genitals clean, use mild soap and warm water. It is not necessary to use a towel afterwards, which retains bacteria. You can dry the intimate area with a hairdryer set to cool air.

Try to avoid scratches and cracks in the genital area, especially during the period of itching.

Wear only 100% cotton underwear whenever possible white color. Sometimes the irritant is the composition of the paint used in the dyeing of underwear. Synthetic fabrics should be avoided. Thongs cause irritation in the intimate area, especially during the period of illness. It is advisable to wear tights with a cotton gusset.

During the period of inflammation in the genital area during the day, it is better to use hygienic tampons instead of napkins.

Items that irritate the vulva, such as deodorant pads, ointments, lubricants, oils, especially intimate cosmetics containing cornstarch, should be avoided. It is a good breeding ground for the reproduction of microorganisms.

During an exacerbation of the disease, try not to expose the genitals to hypothermia and overheating.

Adhere to the norms of proper nutrition, do not eat salinity, fatty foods, sharp. During treatment, alcohol, coffee, sweets are contraindicated.

Eating probiotics helps prevent vaginal infections.

Conclusion

In many cases gynecological diseases are asymptomatic at the initial stage. Emerging hyperemia of the cervix may be the first sign of infection. In order not to miss the moment of starting treatment, it is necessary to visit a gynecologist annually.

Vaginal infections, especially those caused by yeast bacteria, will not go away on their own and often come back. Sometimes their appearance indicates that a disease is developing in the body, such as cancer or fibroids.

It is important to completely get rid of genital infections, to complete the course of treatment. It must be remembered that neglected diseases are a direct path to complications, including increased risk preterm birth, diseases of the pelvic organs, dysbacteriosis, inflammatory diseases of the reproductive organs.

One of the most common diseases of the female genital organs is inflammation of the cervix or cervicitis (from the Latin cervix uteri - cervix). This pathology assigned to class XIV (diseases genitourinary system) and has an ICD code 10 - N72, inflammatory disease of the cervix. To identify the infection that caused this disease, the code for bacterial, viral and other infectious agents (B95-B97) is added.

An increasing number of women are facing this diagnosis. childbearing age, and inflammation of the cervix, moving to the uterus and appendages, can cause irreversible consequences.

ICD-10 code

N72 Inflammatory disease cervix

Causes of inflammation of the cervix

First of all, the causes of inflammation of the cervix are associated with the activation of such persistent conditionally pathogenic bacteria like Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. Microorganisms go on the attack when the system of innate and adaptive cellular immunity of the mucosal (mucous) tissues of the cervix fails. The local immune system - due to the presence of T-lymphocytes and immunologically active cells secreting IgA, IgG, IgM immunoglobulins in the epithelium of the cervical canal, is the "first line of defense" against foreign antigens.

At the same time, as it turned out, the expression of the secretory component of the cervical mucosa is regulated and controlled by sex hormones - 17β-estradiol and progesterone - and changes with their release from the ovaries during the menstrual cycle. So fluctuations in hormone synthesis create certain conditions, in which inflammation of the cervix can develop during pregnancy or in the period preceding menopause.

This also applies to resistance to sexually transmitted infections. In many cases, the pathogenesis of inflammatory processes of the mucous membrane of the cervical canal (endocervicitis) lies in the defeat of chlamydia (Chlamydia trachomatis), gonococci (Neisseria gonorrhoeae), mycoplasma (Mycoplasma genitalium).

Causes of inflammation of the cervix in the area of ​​the exocervix of its vaginal part, which affects the squamous and cylindrical epithelium of exocervicitis, recognized in gynecology, include trichomonas (Trichomonas vaginalis), genital herpes virus Herpes simplex type II, papillomavirus (HPV), Candida fungal infection, actinobacteria Gardnerella vaginalis, and Treponema pallidum(the causative agent of syphilis).

Inflammation of the cervix can lead to injury and subsequent infection, as is often the case when cervical inflammation is diagnosed after childbirth or after a surgical abortion.

Gynecologists note a negative role in the development of cervicitis is prevention of pregnancy with the help of IUDs and chemical contraceptives (spermicides). Constant douching of the vagina leads to a violation of the vaginal microbiocenosis, against which inflammation of the vagina and cervix very often occurs, since the same bacteria and viruses are involved in infection with colpitis (vaginitis) as with cervicitis.

Symptoms of inflammation of the cervix

At mild form inflammation of the cervix, many women do not even notice signs of pathology. However, the first signs of inflammation may appear immediately after the end of the next menstruation.

Key symptoms of inflammation of the cervix are expressed as:

• pain in the lower abdomen during intercourse and painful postcoital sensations in the vagina;
• vaginal pruritis (itching);
• genital irritation;
• mucous-bloody vaginal discharge of varying intensity;
• bleeding between periods;
• burning sensation during urination and an increase in their frequency (since the inflammatory process can lead to urethritis).

According to experts, the temperature during inflammation of the cervix remains normal. But complications of cervicitis, when inflammation passes to the uterus, the fallopian tubes or ovaries, causing inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs, give not only increased pain in the lower part abdominal cavity but also subfebrile body temperature.

In almost two-thirds of cases of latent cervicitis, chronic inflammation of the cervix inevitably develops - asymptomatic or having similar signs. A complication of such inflammation is often cervical erosion.

Discharge during inflammation of the cervix depends on the nature of the infectious agent: when affected by chlamydia, they are mucous with an admixture of pus; with trichomonas etiology, inflammation is yellow or slightly greenish with foam and bad smell; fungal infection gives curdled discharge. A purulent inflammation cervix with greenish vaginal discharge most often observed with gonococcal infections.

Especially dangerous Negative consequences gives chronic inflammation of the cervix during pregnancy. This is the termination of pregnancy, and premature birth, and antenatal infection of the fetus, and septic complications in parturients. And chronic inflammation of the cervix, caused by human papillomavirus infection, threatens with oncology.

Diagnosis of inflammation of the cervix

The diagnosis of inflammation of the cervix begins with a gynecological examination of the cervix and an assessment of its condition.

Laboratory tests require blood tests - general and biochemical, as well as linked immunosorbent assay for the presence of antibodies to Chlamydia trachomatis and herpes virus.

It is also mandatory to take a scraping from the mucous membrane of the cervix and a smear from the cervical canal for bacterial microflora (including the DNA of Trichomonas and gonococci); Pap smear (Pap test) for the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV).

As a result of these morphological studies of the biomaterial from the site of pathological process becomes a cytogram of inflammation of the cervix - a detailed description of the state of the cells of the endo- and exocervix, indicating all detected infectious agents and pathological changes at the cellular level. IN clinical gynecology the diagnostic method, based on bacterioscopy, is considered the most informative and accurate.

Instrumental diagnostics is carried out using colposcopy, which allows visualizing with multiple magnification structural changes infected mucous membranes of the cervix and vagina. In the case of chronic inflammation of the cervical mucosa and a positive Pap smear, a biopsy is taken during colposcopy.

Differential Diagnosis

Extremely important in cervicitis differential diagnosis, since only a correct definition of the causative agent of inflammation can give positive result treatment of the disease. Cervicitis is also differentiated from cervical cancer and other benign processes in this area.

Treatment of inflammation of the cervix

The prescribed treatment for cervical inflammation necessarily takes into account the type of infection. The main drugs in cases of staphylo- and streptococcal inflammation, inflammation due to infection with gonococci, chlamydia or Trichomonas - antibacterial.

An antibiotic for inflammation of the cervix is ​​​​prescribed taking into account the susceptibility of a particular microorganism to the preparations of this pharmacological group. So, with gonorrheal, staphylococcal and streptococcal cervicitis, the beta-lactam antibiotic Ceftriaxone, which is administered intramuscularly (0.5-1 ml once a day), is effective.

As noted in the instructions, side effects can be in the form of nausea, diarrhea, allergic skin reactions, candidiasis and deterioration of kidney function. Also suffering intestinal microflora. The drug is not used in the first trimester of pregnancy.

The main antibiotics for chlamydial inflammation of the cervix - Azithromycin, Doxycycline and Ofloxacin - are taken orally. For example, Ofloxacin is recommended to take one tablet (0.2 g) twice a day for 7-10 days. In addition to side effects common to most antibiotics, the use of this drug in the treatment of inflammation of the cervix may cause increased sensitivity to UV radiation.

Treatment of inflammation of the cervix caused by Trichomonas requires the use of Metronidazole (Trichopolum, Efloran, Novonidazole and other synonyms) in tablets of 0.25 g. up to 8 days. In addition, you must simultaneously use for 10 days vaginal suppositories Metronidazole (two suppositories per day). Among the side effects of this medication are nausea, vomiting, dryness and taste of metal in the mouth, problems with the intestines and urination, dizziness, weakness, sleep disturbances, etc. And among the contraindications are pregnancy, epilepsy, kidney or liver failure.

In case of inflammation caused by the herpes virus, a 5-day course of treatment with Acyclovir tablets (Zovirax, Geviran, Valtrex) is prescribed: one tablet (200 mg) every 4 hours during the day (with a glass of water). Taking this drug can cause hives, swelling, nausea, vomiting, increased blood bilirubin levels, abdominal pain, sleep disturbances, seizures, etc.

Surgical treatment - in the form of coagulation of the affected tissue by electrocoagulation, cryo- or laser therapy - for this disease is carried out only if there is no effect drug therapy and the occurrence of erosion sites on the mucous membranes of the cervix.

Local treatment of inflammation of the cervix

In gynecology, vaginal tablets and suppositories for inflammation of the cervix are very widely used.

In addition to the already mentioned vaginal suppositories Metronidazole, doctors recommend Trichomonacid, Gaynomax, Ginalgin, etc. for trichomonas inflammation. Candles for candidal inflammation - Ginezol, Neo-Penotran (Metromicon-neo), Zalain. With non-specific infections, a 3-5-day course of treatment with antibiotic suppositories Clindacin (Dalacin) helps.

Hexicon antiseptic vaginal suppositories are often prescribed for inflammation of the cervix (dr. tradename Chlorhexidine). One suppository should be administered twice a day, the course of treatment can last up to three weeks. This remedy allowed to be used by pregnant women.

Terzhinan vaginal tablets with inflammation of the cervix act in a complex way, since they contain an antibiotic (Neomycin), an imidazole derivative active against Trichomonas Ternidazole, polyene antibiotic Nystatin (destroying yeast-like fungi), as well as the filming local inflammation Prednisolone. It is supposed to enter into the vagina one tablet once a day (preferably at night). After the introduction, a slight burning sensation may be felt, the appearance of irritations is not excluded. The drug is not used in the first three months of pregnancy.

With chlamydial inflammation, the cervix is ​​\u200b\u200btreated with a 2% solution of silver nitrate, 1% alcohol or 2% oil solution Chlorophyllipt (based on eucalyptus leaf extract) or Malavit solution (from medicinal plants with the addition of mummy).

This method is also used local therapy, like douching for inflammation of the cervix. Gynecologists strongly recommend performing this procedure at home in compliance with all antiseptic rules and not relying on the fact that this way can replace systemic treatment infections.

Among means for syringings 0,01% are noted antiseptic solution Miramistin for inflammation of the cervix caused by strepto- and staphylococci, gonococci, chlamydia and Trichomonas. You should also insert a tampon abundantly moistened with this solution into the vagina every day.

Alternative treatment

In the presence of such serious pathogens inflammatory process in cervical tissues, the decision to apply folk treatment should be discussed with your doctor, who is unlikely to approve of this idea.

However, herbal treatment for inflammation of the cervix is ​​still practiced. It mainly includes vaginal douching decoctions of medicinal plants.

Some "folk recipes" posted on the Internet, in their composition, have nothing to do with this pathology.

The most correct medicinal herbal collection recommended by professional herbalists is this. It is necessary to take: calendula flowers, chamomile flowers and St. John's wort (5 tablespoons of dry raw materials of each plant), as well as half the amount of licorice root, plantain leaves and knotweed herb (mountain snake). Mix all the herbs, and to prepare the broth, take this mixture in a heaping tablespoon per 250 ml of water. The grass is poured with boiling water, infused in a sealed container for about 40 minutes, and then brought to a boil and boiled for 5 minutes.

Forecast

According to gynecologists, every woman should be examined regularly (once every six months). This will help to detect inflammation in time and cure it faster.

Moreover, if the inflammation of the cervix is ​​not treated, the prognosis is very disappointing: the inflammation can go higher and capture the uterine mucosa, fallopian tubes and ovaries, which can cause fertility problems.

Every day, thousands of women, alarmed that the cervix has become red, turn to specialists with the question: what is the reason for this phenomenon and why did they have the corresponding symptoms.

The first warning signs

Redness of the internal organ is most often not an ordinary skin irritation, but the first alarm signal: the cervix is ​​not in order. Such a symptom may indicate the following ailments:

• erosion
• polyps
• Oncological diseases
• Inflammation.

Inflammation most often affects the cervical mucus of the uterus.

Only medical specialists can determine what is happening to the reproductive organ and analyze the symptoms accompanying its changes. In some cases, complex diagnostics will be required to identify what processes are taking place in the cervical region. You need to know: self-treatment of this organ is strictly prohibited. Competently effective methods for the treatment of a particular disease can only be selected by a doctor. When determining a strategy for dealing with an illness, he must necessarily take into account the dynamics of the development of the disease and the symptoms it manifests.

The video talks about cervical erosion:

What should be normal?

The uterus is a unique element of the body, it has a pear-shaped shape and is capable of increasing 500 times during a woman's pregnancy. The mucous membrane of the vaginal part is covered, if it is not broken, by stratified squamous epithelium. The cervix, when normal, should be pale pink, but not red. The surface of the shell in the absence of diseases of the genital organ is shiny. The vascular pattern of this part of the body, if a woman does not have pathologies of this organ, is uniform. During the menstrual cycle, the shade in this area may change, but not significantly. The red shell of the organ is an indicator that the cervix is ​​susceptible to pathology and destructive processes take place in it.

True erosion in this area is considered fairly common. female disease, they suffer from the fair sex, regardless of their age.

At this disease the membrane that covers the cervix becomes bright red. One of the symptoms of true erosion is the presence of loose necrotic overlays in its area. Congenital ectopia is often confused by non-specialists in the medical field with a previous disease. There is a difference between ectopia and erosion, but the symptom of both diseases will be the changed color of this part of the reproductive organ. Congenital ectopia often occurs in women who have underdeveloped internal genital organs. With ectopia, the surface of this part of the organ acquires a bright red hue. This phenomenon is present around the external pharynx of the neck. The red area in this part is covered with columnar epithelium.

The picture shows an ectopic cervix

Acquired ectopia in its variety of symptomatic manifestations in this area surpasses the two previous diseases. Areas of cylindrical epithelium are distinguished by a granular surface on which papillae have formed. The cervix is ​​not red, but pink. In some cases, in the area of ​​damage to the reproductive organ, vascular loops can be seen, which, as it were, cover the organ itself. In one part of the neck, several diseases can occur simultaneously, which have similar symptoms. To differentiate diseases of the genital organ, the symptoms of which are similar, methods of biochemical research are used.

Surgical interventions

Erosed ectropion is often due to acquired ectopia. It is characterized not by a red, but by a pink surface, which distinguishes the uterus. Surgery performed in this area often causes a similar condition in this area. If you examine the site of postoperative sutures, their surface may also be red. eroded area in similar cases undergoes deformation, it will indicate hypertrophy of the reproductive organ. And wrong oval shape foci of inflammation is already inherent in another disease - endometriosis of the cervix. The foci of inflammation in this case protrude noticeably above its surface. The foci of endometriosis have a red or bluish surface, their size can change during the menstrual cycle, when the uterus itself functions differently.

Due to the excessive growth of the mucosal area, the uterus may become covered with polyps. In such cases, it is characterized by a pink or red surface. The state of her channel changes. Lobular formations cover the entire neck. When erythroplakia develops, its symptoms will differ even more significantly. In some areas, areas of hyperemia can be observed, which have irregular shape. The uterus may be densely or loosely covered with them. And the leukoplakia in her cervical region will look different. The surface of the reproductive organ, contrary to popular belief, does not turn red, but white spots and horny deposits appear on it. The latter symptoms help to quickly diagnose leukoplakia. It is quite simple for a doctor to detect the focus of the disease: there is a red surface under the thickened epithelium.

An atypical zone of transformation is often called a precancer of the uterus.

Diagnosis of the disease is quite difficult, since in its symptomatic picture there are signs inherent in various diseases of the genital organ. The disease covers its various parts and does not spread strictly localized. But vitreous areas are not observed in this disease. They are characteristic of another, even more severe disease - an oncological disease of the organ. In this case, the uterus is covered with vitreous substances and outgrowths of various shapes. Atypical vessels that have a bizarre shape are also symptoms this disease. In their structure, they are similar to embryonic capillaries. Struck cancer the uterus may be pale or red. The first sign is more often present locally and spreads locally in the first stages of the disease of the reproductive organ.

Changes throughout life

In some cases, changes in the uterus are accompanied by pain symptoms, in others they are not. It is surrounded by internal organs, they mutually influence each other. When diagnosing her diseases, a whole complex of symptoms that manifest themselves in this area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe body is considered. However, it must be remembered that many diseases in her area can manifest themselves asymptomatically. Problems in functioning can develop against the background of other diseases of the genitourinary system. The uterus can be injured, subject to unsuccessful surgical effects, which also worsens its condition. In order for her pathologies to be detected on time, a woman needs to undergo a regular examination by a gynecologist. The uterus in the female body is not in a static state; it changes throughout life. The red surface of the genital organ often occurs at the time of puberty.

This phenomenon is connected with the fact that one epithelium is replaced by another. The red surface can also be a manifestation of a reaction to factors that irritate this organ. If the uterus is updated with violations and there is no slow replacement of one epithelium by another, when a woman is at the age of 16-17 years, the surface of the organ becomes red, conditions are created for the development of its pathologies. If you do not take timely action, cancer can also begin.

When the area of ​​​​the reproductive organ became red - this is one of the first alarms, indicating that there are problems in its functioning.

The cervix is ​​a very vulnerable part. Her condition will whistle from various factors, an important of which is the age of the woman. It is most at risk in people aged 15 to 24. It is during this period, as experts say, that the cervix becomes a platform for development various pathologies. At this time, she is especially vulnerable to negative impact external factors. The cervix is ​​less protected from destructive changes and due to the early onset of sexual activity by a woman or frequent shift sexual partners. At various diseases uterus symptoms can be different. She often gets infected. The cervix is ​​prone to destructive changes due to early pregnancies, which do not improve the condition of the body as a whole. Among women whose cervix is ​​affected by various ailments, a significant category is those who have had an abortion at least once.