Cervicitis is a medical condition that refers to an inflammation in the cervix. The word is spelled with seven letters and pronounced as "sɜrvəˈsaɪtɪs" in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable "cervi" means neck, while the suffix "-itis" denotes inflammation. Thus, when combined, the word refers to inflammation in the neck, particularly the cervix. Cervicitis is typically caused by an infection, and can lead to symptoms such as pain during intercourse and abnormal vaginal bleeding.
Cervicitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. The inflammation in cervicitis is usually caused by an infection, although it can also be a result of a non-infectious condition.
The most common cause of cervicitis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI), such as chlamydia or gonorrhea. These infections are typically transmitted through sexual contact and can lead to inflammation of the cervix. Other common causes include bacterial overgrowth in the vagina, allergic reactions to certain products or materials, or an injury to the cervix.
Symptoms of cervicitis may include abnormal vaginal discharge, often with an unpleasant odor, pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse, and bleeding or spotting between periods. However, some women may experience no symptoms at all, making it essential to undergo regular gynecological exams for early detection.
Diagnosis of cervicitis usually involves a pelvic examination, where a healthcare provider would examine the cervix for signs of inflammation or infection. A sample of cervical cells may be collected for further analysis if necessary. Treatment typically depends on the underlying cause of the condition. It may include antibiotics to treat bacterial infections, antiviral medications for viral infections, or other appropriate treatments to address non-infectious causes.
If cervicitis is left untreated, it can lead to complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can cause further damage to the reproductive organs and increase the risk of infertility or ectopic pregnancy. Therefore, timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent potential complications.
Trachelitis; inflammation of the cervix uteri.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "cervicitis" is derived from the Latin word "cervix", which translates to "neck" or "cervix of the uterus", and the suffix "-itis", indicating inflammation. "Cervicitis" refers to the inflammation of the cervix, usually caused by an infection or irritation.