What are the causes of cervical erosion?

Aug 20, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, cervical erosion may be caused by hormonal changes during the reproductive period, physiological ectropion of cervical columnar epithelium, spread of bacterial vaginosis, irritation from cervicitis, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, and other factors. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition through general treatments, medication, and other approaches under a doctor's guidance. In daily life, one should avoid frequently using irritating vaginal washes.

Under normal circumstances, cervical erosion may be caused by hormonal changes during the reproductive years, physiological ectropion of cervical columnar epithelium, spread of bacterial vaginosis, irritation from cervicitis, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, and other factors. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation, identify the underlying cause, and improve the condition under a doctor's guidance through general treatments, medication, and other methods. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Hormonal changes during the reproductive years: Women of reproductive age typically have higher estrogen levels, which can cause the columnar epithelium inside the cervical canal to migrate outward onto the cervical surface. This appears as erosion-like changes and is considered a physiological phenomenon. No special treatment is required; regular cervical cytology examinations and HPV testing are sufficient.

2. Physiological ectropion of cervical columnar epithelium: Some women are born with columnar epithelium naturally extending to the external cervical os. This appears similar to erosion upon visual examination but typically causes no significant discomfort. No treatment is necessary; however, maintaining sexual hygiene, having a regular sexual partner, and avoiding unclean sexual practices are recommended.

3. Spread of bacterial vaginosis: Imbalance of vaginal flora can lead to bacterial vaginosis, wherein bacteria ascend to infect the cervix, irritating the cervical epithelium and causing inflammatory erosion, often accompanied by abnormal vaginal discharge odor and itching of the external genitalia. Patients should follow medical advice to use medications such as metronidazole suppositories, clindamycin phosphate suppositories, or tinidazole suppositories to treat vaginitis.

4. Cervicitis irritation: Infection with pathogens such as Chlamydia or Mycoplasma can cause cervicitis. Persistent inflammation irritates the cervical epithelium, causing congestion, damage, and erosion-like changes, often accompanied by pain in the lower back and increased vaginal discharge. Patients should follow medical advice to use antibiotics such as azithromycin capsules, doxycycline hydrochloride tablets, or cefixime dispersible tablets for anti-infective treatment.

5. Human papillomavirus infection: Persistent infection with high-risk HPV types may lead to cervical epithelial lesions. These lesions may appear as erosion-like changes and could potentially progress to cervical disease over time. Patients should follow medical advice to use medications such as recombinant human interferon α2b gel, Baofukang suppositories, or anti-HPV bioprotein dressings to assist in viral clearance.

In daily life, avoid frequent use of irritating feminine washes; gentle cleansing with warm water is sufficient. In terms of diet, reduce intake of spicy and fried foods, and consume more fresh vegetables and fruits to enhance overall immunity.

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What are the risks of laser treatment for cervical erosion?

Cervical erosion, also known as cervical columnar epithelial displacement, carries certain risks when treated with laser therapy, including postoperative bleeding, cervical stenosis, infection, impaired fertility, and cervical adhesion. At the same time, women should maintain good lifestyle habits and personal hygiene, and undergo regular gynecological examinations, which help in the early detection and management of related issues.

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Is it good to use LEEP for cervical erosion?

Cervical erosion refers to cervical columnar epithelial displacement. If cervical columnar epithelial displacement is accompanied by abnormal symptoms, a loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) might be preferable; for patients with mild cervical columnar epithelial displacement, surgical treatment generally is not required. When deciding whether surgery is necessary, patients should fully understand the advantages and disadvantages of the procedure, its indications, and precautions, and undergo individualized treatment under the guidance of a physician.

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What are the post-treatment care considerations after laser therapy for chronic cervicitis?

In general, laser treatment for chronic cervicitis uses carbon dioxide laser to cause necrosis and shedding of the cervical erosion area, allowing new cervical tissue to grow and the cervical surface to become smooth again. The general reference price for laser treatment of chronic cervicitis is 500–2000 yuan per session, and noticeable improvement is usually observed within 7–15 days.

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Can Metronidazole Tablets treat cervical erosion?

Cervical erosion usually refers to cervical columnar epithelial displacement. Under normal circumstances, metronidazole tablets cannot treat cervical columnar epithelial displacement. If cervical columnar epithelial displacement is accompanied by abnormal vaginal discharge, contact bleeding or other symptoms, there may be a concurrent infection, and timely medical consultation is needed to determine the cause before targeted treatment; maintain external genital cleanliness in daily life.