Cervical pseudoerosion.

Pseudo-erosion of the cervix is a violation of the skin, which can subsequently develop into a real erosion. In this case, the multilayered epithelium "crawls" onto the mucous surface when erosion begins.

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Causes cervical pseudoerosion

The cause of such a disease can be any change in the epithelium. Among the most common are:

1. Venereal infections.
2. Early onset of sexual activity.
3. Injuries from difficult births, abortions or improperly performed examinations.
4. Domestic injuries (use of a dildo, violent sexual intercourse).
5. Gynecological diseases that cause inflammation (colpitis, endocervitis, cervicitis).
6. Vaginal dysbacteriosis.
7. Chemical contraceptives.
8. Hormonal imbalance.
9. Weakened immunity.

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Pathogenesis

It is very important to monitor your health and visit a gynecologist at least once every six months. These recommendations are especially suitable for girls over 25, who most often develop pseudo-erosion of the cervix. Remember that the main cause of this disease is inflammation, so try to always use contraceptives when changing sexual partners.

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Symptoms cervical pseudoerosion

Unfortunately, the development of this disease has no clear symptoms, so many women do not even suspect that they are sick. There is usually no pain or any unpleasant sensations. The patient's vagina may be clean, without irritation or itching.

Sometimes there is not abundant white or transparent discharge without a strong odor, which indicates the occurrence of a small inflammation. In some cases (if pseudo-erosion is caused by diseases such as vaginosis), the discharge may have a "rotten" odor. Usually, pseudo-erosion of the cervix is diagnosed after examination.

According to the latest research, this disease is more common in:

1. Young women under 30 (67%) – this is explained by frequent hormonal imbalances.
2. Women from 30 to 40 years old get sick much less often (three times).
3. And among patients over 40, pseudo-erosion is found in only 10%.

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First signs

Usually girls start to notice that something is wrong with their body when discharge of different shades and smells appears from the vagina. This is the first sign that inflammation is occurring inside, which can cause pseudo-erosion. If you notice unusual, abundant discharge of white, pink, yellow color (with or without smell), you should immediately contact a gynecologist and undergo an examination.

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Forms

Pseudo-erosion of the cervix has several types: glandular, cystic, papillary, papillary, epidermizing, glandular-cystic.

Glandular pseudo-erosion of the cervix

It is distinguished by strongly growing erosive glands. That is, the cylindrical epithelium grows not only on the outside of the cervix, but also penetrates into the deep layers. This is the initial stage of the disease. The main difference is the fact that the glandular type can develop in a woman's body from one to two or even three years without disturbing her. This type is most often encountered in modern medicine.

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Papillary pseudo-erosion of the cervix

Papillary or glandular-papillary pseudo-erosion of the cervix is characterized by the formation of distinct growths in the form of small papillae. They are covered with cylindrical epithelium on top. Many gynecologists believe that this type is not a disease, but rather a pathology of tissue formation.

Papillary pseudo-erosion of the cervix often has the following symptoms:

1. Mild pain in the lower abdomen.
2. Mild itching in the vagina.
3. Sometimes a burning sensation appears.
4. After intercourse there may be slight bloody discharge.
5. There is constant discharge from the vagina (white or clear).

Cystic pseudo-erosion of the cervix

It is distinguished by the presence of small cystic compactions that arise between the encroaching tissues of the cylindrical layers. Cystic, like glandular pseudo-erosion, occurs most often.

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Glandular cystic pseudo-erosion of the cervix

In their pure form, different types of pseudo-erosion are extremely rare. They are usually combined with each other. Recently, many patients have been diagnosed with glandular-cystic pseudo-erosion of the cervix, which is characterized by an increase in erosive glands, between which cysts arise. This disease is quite serious, since the secretion that blocks the erosive glands and the channels between them often leads to infection. Therefore, inflammatory processes in the vagina and on the wall of the cervix rarely go away.

Epidermizing pseudo-erosion of the cervix

Also called "healing". This type of pseudo-erosion often occurs after effective treatment of the diseases that caused the pathology. The process of epidermization occurs as follows: first, the flat epithelium, which is formed from reserve cells, begins to displace the cylindrical epithelium. Healing of pseudo-erosion occurs only when all the cylindrical epithelium disappears. Unfortunately, even after such a process, cystic formations may remain. Because of this, the cervix becomes deformed and enlarges.

Papillary pseudo-erosion of the cervix

It is characterized by the presence of overgrown papillary stromata, which are covered from above by cylindrical epithelium. In such stromata, small-cell infiltrates and other inflamed areas are located.

Complications and consequences

Pseudo-erosion of the cervix is considered a background disease that does not pose a threat to the life or health of a woman. But do not think that such a disease does not require treatment. Pseudo-erosion of the cervix disrupts the integral structure of the epithelium and becomes a dangerous place for the development of various inflammatory processes.

Pseudoerosion can actively develop and grow in a woman's body for years. If it exists for too long, then dysplasia, which is a precancerous condition, may appear in the nabothian cysts (peculiar cavities with cervical mucus). In addition, due to the growth of cystic formations, the chance of fertilization may decrease.

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Complications

The main complication that can occur in the late stages of pseudo-erosion of the cervix is female infertility. Growing cysts, inside which cervical mucus accumulates, interfere with the passage of sperm, so conception does not occur. To prevent this from happening, it is recommended to visit a gynecologist every year after 25 years and have mucus examined.

Please note that pseudo-erosion often returns again. This is explained by the fact that the antibacterial function of the mucous membrane is disrupted.

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Diagnostics cervical pseudoerosion

During the examination by a gynecologist, pseudo-erosion is quite clearly visible. It looks like a bright red granular formation on the cervix. Sometimes blood comes out of it when pressed.

The following methods exist for diagnosing pseudo-erosion of the cervix:

1. Extended colposcopy – examination of the affected areas and the vagina is performed using a special microscope (colposcope). This method allows not only to diagnose the disease, but also to see the extent of tissue damage and its structure.
2. Taking CPR smears to conduct microscopic examinations for the presence of any infections. Smears are taken from the cervix and cervical canal.
3. Taking smears from the urethra, vagina, cervix and conducting microscopic examinations for possible foci of inflammation.
4. Taking blood to test hormone levels.
5. Conducting histological analyses to identify oncological processes.

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Tests

1. Oncocytological examination – a scraping is taken from the upper part of the cervix and cervical canal, which is sent for analysis. Thanks to this examination, it is possible to see whether atypical tissues are benign or malignant. The analysis also allows for an accurate diagnosis.
2. A biopsy of tissue from the cervix is performed only after the results of the oncocytological examination are known. A small part of the affected cervix is submitted for analysis.
3. Analysis for the presence or absence of the ten most common gynecological infections.
4. Bacteriological culture for candidiasis. If infection is present, a test is also performed to determine sensitivity to various antibiotics.
5. Analysis for mycoureaplasma and flora.
6. HIV test (blood is donated).
7. Analysis for the presence of antibodies against chlamydia, HSV and CMP (ELISA).
8. Gynecological smear for cleanliness of the vagina, urethra and cervical canal.

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Instrumental diagnostics

The main method of instrumental diagnostics of cervical pseudo-erosion is colposcopy.

Colposcopy is an examination of the vaginal opening, vaginal walls, and cervix using a special microscope. It consists of a binocular and a lighting device. The examination is carried out on a gynecological chair. The patient does not feel pain or any discomfort. In order to better see the lesions, a gynecological speculum is inserted into the vagina. This method has no contraindications and can be performed on any day of the menstrual cycle.

Differential diagnosis

Cervical pseudo-erosion can be seen even during a routine gynecological examination, but doctors cannot always accurately diagnose this disease. Cervical pseudo-erosion is very similar in appearance to regular erosion and dysplasia. That is why it can be considered that the main method of differential diagnostics is colposcopy. Various tests and studies also help to identify the disease.

Treatment cervical pseudoerosion

Pseudoerosion of the cervix is treated with medications and surgery. At first, the doctor may prescribe various types of antibiotics to eliminate the cause of the disease. Antimicrobial, restorative and hormonal agents are also prescribed to help prepare the cervix for surgery.

Among the main non-drug methods we can highlight:

1. Diathermocoagulation or electrocoagulation - the affected area is cauterized using electric current. This method is considered obsolete.
2. Cryodestruction is a treatment using liquid nitrogen.
3. Laser destruction – removal by laser.
4. Radio wave surgery.

The attending physician should choose which method is best in your individual case. For pregnant women and girls who have not yet given birth, the radio wave method is recommended, since it does not leave any scars on the cervix, which can prevent the uterus from opening during childbirth. Mature women are often recommended cryodestruction or laser destruction, but it is worth understanding that scars will remain after such an intervention.

Radio wave surgery is usually scheduled for the 5th or 10th day of the menstrual cycle, when all discharge ends. If the surgery is performed after childbirth, then on the 45th day after childbirth.

The radio wave method is contraindicated in the following cases:

1. Bloody discharge and the first days of menstruation.
2. Inflammations that occur at the site of the disease (vulvovaginitis, endometritis-colpitis).
3. Acute infectious and somatic diseases. Including acute respiratory viral infections, cystitis, rhinitis, pyelonephritis. Also, do not do it if you have a high body temperature.
4. Oncology.
5. Tendency to profuse bleeding.
6. Mental disorders.
7. Diabetes mellitus.
8. Physical or emotional stress.

Radio wave surgery can be performed in cases of uterine fibroids, HPV, breastfeeding, or the presence of a cyst.

Advantages of the radio wave method:

1. After the first procedure, the result is noticeable.
2. The burn scar does not develop.
3. There is no need to use additional means to make it heal faster.

Immediately after the surgical intervention, in the first days, patients note mild pain in the lower abdomen. They go away on their own over time. Within a week or two, there may be discharge of a brown or reddish hue that has no odor.

For the first 10 days after the operation you must not:

1. Swim in ponds, go to baths and saunas.
2. Avoid physical activity and long hikes.
3. Do not engage in sexual intercourse.

Pregnancy can be planned as early as one month after radio wave surgery.

Medicines

Among the main medications used to treat pseudo-erosion of the cervix, antibacterial and antimicrobial are distinguished. Usually, medications are prescribed in the form of suppositories that are inserted into the vagina. But tablets are also recommended to improve the flora.

1. Terzhinan is a drug used to treat gynecological diseases. It has antibacterial and antifungal effects. A course of 10 days is usually prescribed. The suppository is inserted deep into the vagina at night. The main side effects include: burning, itching, and allergies.
2. Lactobacterin - has an antibacterial effect against many pathogenic and opportunistic bacteria. In gynecological diseases, it is administered intravaginally. The course is individual and is prescribed strictly by a doctor.
3. Bifidumbacterin – is available in powder form. Has an antibacterial effect. It is used intravaginally. The course is prescribed by a doctor depending on the disease.
4. Depantol is a drug that has regenerative, metabolic and antiseptic effects. Treatment lasts one to three weeks. Suppositories are inserted into the vagina one at a time, twice a day.

Folk remedies

Remember that folk remedies, like medications, have contraindications, so before using them you should consult a doctor.

1. Sea buckthorn oil is used for pseudo-erosion of the cervix. Tampons are used for this. The course of treatment lasts 8-12 days. The results are not only effective, but also long-lasting.
2. Take 2.5 grams of mumiyo and dissolve it in half a glass of plain water. Soak tampons in the solution and insert deep into the vagina for the whole night. The course is individual.
3. Take eucalyptus infusion (1 teaspoon) and dilute in warm water (one glass). Do douching every day.
4. Make a douching solution based on 2% calendula tincture (1 teaspoon) and water (one glass). The course usually takes up to a week.

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Herbal treatment

1. Take 4 tablespoons of crushed St. John's wort and pour boiled water (2 liters). Put on low heat and cook for 10 minutes. Then remove and leave for another half hour. The solution is suitable for douching.
2. Take one glass of boiling water, add 20 grams of common elm bark. Heat on low heat and cook for about twenty minutes. After that, dilute in water again (proportions 1:1) and do douching.
3. Mix 20 grams of dried sage (leaves), 30 grams of chamomile, 10 grams of lavender, common wormwood, birch (leaves), marsh cudweed, oak (bark), marigold and bird cherry (inflorescences). Take 15 grams of the resulting mixture and pour water (1 liter). Boil for up to two hours (more is possible). Strain and use for douching. The course is 7 days, twice a day.

Homeopathy

Remember that when treating pseudo-erosion of the cervix, homeopathic remedies can only be a supplement.

1. Acidum nitricum - should be taken only under regular medical examination. Dosage is mandatory with a high dilution of the drug in water.
2. Argentum metallicum – also known as “metallic silver”. Sometimes used in the treatment of cervical erosions and pseudo-erosions.
3. Creosotum – also known as “beech tar.” It helps to get rid of bleeding and small ulcers.

Surgical treatment

1. Electrocoagulation is an outdated method, which is still used in some small clinics. First, drug treatment is carried out, which helps to get rid of the causes that caused pseudo-erosion. Only after this can you begin treatment with electric current. Thanks to the use of local anesthesia, the method is completely painless. After the operation, scars and marks remain, so it is suitable only for those women who have already given birth. Healing occurs from 2 weeks to a month (in some cases longer). During this time, you cannot take baths, swim in ponds, go to a bathhouse or sauna. You also need to wait with sexual activity. Sometimes, for quick healing, a gynecologist can recommend special suppositories.
2. Cryodestruction – liquid nitrogen is used to remove the affected layers of the epithelium. The procedure is painless, thanks to local anesthesia. It is suitable for women who have already given birth, since scars remain on the cervix. The area is cooled to a temperature of 90-180 degrees. An important advantage is that healthy tissues are practically not injured during cryodestruction. The duration of the operation is less than half an hour. Damaged tissues are eliminated from the body naturally over two to three months.
3. Laser destruction – removal of pseudo-erosion of the cervix using a laser. Such treatment cannot be carried out in case of inflammatory processes in the vagina, if there are malignant tumors, if the affected tissues have gone too far into the cervical canal.

Prevention

If a girl has a constant sexual life, changing her partners and not using proper protection, this has a negative effect on the vaginal microflora. To prevent pseudo-erosion of the cervix, it is necessary to take preventive measures, among which the following stand out:

1. Regular visits to the gynecologist (once every six months).
2. Proper personal hygiene.

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Forecast

Remember that untimely treatment of pseudo-erosion will lead to the formation of dysplasia or normal erosion of the cervix, and this in turn is one of the causes of cancer. Also, such a disease can lead to serious inflammatory processes. Treatment usually gives a good result, but sometimes there are relapses of the disease if a woman continues to live a too stormy sex life and does not take care of her health.

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