You may have heard cervical ectropion being called cervical erosion.
Despite its name, the cervix is not actually eroding.
Other assumed causes included sexually transmitted infections (STI) such asherpesor earlysyphilis.
Verywell / Cindy Chung
The presence of ectropion is also influenced by estrogens and can often be seen in postmenopausal women.
Some women with cervical ectropion also experience a clear or yellowish vaginal discharge that has no odor.
This discharge does not resemble pus, which would indicate an infection.
Symptoms likepostcoital bleedingcould very well be something else, like cervicitis, cervical cancer, or cervical polyps.
Treatment
The good news is that for the majority of women, cervical ectropion is not bothersome.
This requires a Pap smear and potentially acolposcopyand/or cervical biopsy.
Cervical cancer is obviously a very serious medical condition, unlike cervical ectropion, which is not pathologic.
A Word From Verywell
While the term cervical ectropion or erosion sounds worrisome, it’s not.
That being said, it can only be diagnosed by a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cervical ectropion is a condition that happens when the cervical canal turns outward.
In some women, it may occur during pregnancy.
No, cervical ectropion is not a serious condition.
The symptoms, if any, are mild and include vaginal discharge and spotting.
It is typically left untreated.
Cervical ectropion may resolve on its own or may remain as is.
When cervical ectropion occurs during pregnancy, it may take three to six months to reverse on its own.
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