Cervical Ectropion

What it is

Cervical ectropion, popularly known as "cervical erosion," is the outward displacement of the tissue lining the cervical canal, which becomes visible on the outer surface of the cervix. In most cases it is not a disease: it is a common variation related to estrogen activity, frequent in young women, with the use of contraceptives and during pregnancy. In some cases, however, this more delicate tissue can cause persistent discharge, bleeding after intercourse or recurrent infections. Because its appearance can be mistaken for inflammation (cervicitis) and HPV-related lesions, the assessment includes a Pap smear, testing for infections and, when necessary, colposcopy. Treatment is only indicated when there are symptoms or an associated infection, and can be done with medication or cauterization of the cervix, using electrocautery or laser.

Most common symptoms

• No symptoms in most cases
• Clear, persistent discharge, without odor
• Light bleeding after intercourse
• Bleeding after a Pap smear
• Recurrent vaginal infections
• Mild discomfort or pain during intercourse, in some cases

Causes and risk factors

• Estrogen activity, common in young women
• Use of hormonal contraceptives
• Pregnancy and the postpartum period
• Associated inflammation of the cervix (cervicitis)
• Infections such as chlamydia, which can overlap with the condition

How it is diagnosed

Ectropion is usually noticed during a routine gynecological exam, when the cervix is observed with a speculum. At the consultation, your gynecologist discusses discharge, bleeding and hormone use, collects a Pap smear and, when indicated, tests to check for infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. Since the appearance can be mistaken for cervicitis and HPV-related lesions, colposcopy is ordered when there is doubt, with biopsy if necessary. Most of the time, the result confirms a normal variation.

How we treat it at Femi Saúde

When ectropion causes no symptoms and exams are normal, no treatment is needed, just routine follow-up with Pap smears. If there is an associated infection or cervicitis, it is treated with specific medications, which often resolves the discharge and bleeding. In cases where symptoms persist and are bothersome, Femi Saúde's gynecology team may recommend cauterization of the cervix, performed in the office with electrocautery or CO₂ laser, after normal colposcopy and Pap smear results. In some women, switching the contraceptive method is also considered. The approach is individualized, avoiding unnecessary procedures and explaining each step to the patient.

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