In many women, cells from inside the cervical canal, known as glandular cells, are present on the outside surface of the cervix. This used to be called cervical erosion and is now more commonly known as cervical ectropion.
The area where the glandular cells meet the squamous epithelial cells, which are those found on the outer surface of the cervix, is called the transformation zone. If a woman has cervical ectropion, it can be seen by the doctor when she does a cervical screening test (smear test) and the area appears red (because glandular cells are red). While many women are born with cervical ectropion, it can be caused by hormonal changes, so sometimes young women, pregnant women or women on the pill are more likely to have it.
Cervical ectropion is NOT linked to the development of cervical cancer or any other condition that causes cancer.
For the majority of women, cervical ectropion does not cause any problems and it usually goes away by itself without needing any treatment.
However, as glandular cells bleed more easily and can produce more mucus than squamous epithelial cells, cervical ectropion may cause spotting, discharge or pain during or after sex. It can also sometimes cause pain during or after a cervical screening. If any of these symptoms are causing problems for you, you may wish to look into treatment options. Your GP can provide you with more help on this and refer you for treatment, if necessary.
In order to solve this problem, Elizabeth Hospital has brought in the LEEP High-Frequency Technology. In this technology, the Leep not only remove the erosion, but also kill the bacteria. It’s a once for all treatment, which had proved its effect for those who have got inflammation on the cervix.
The LEEP treatment can result in some bleeding or discharge, as well as some ‘period-like’ pain. We recommend no bath and no swimming for two months post-treatment. Tampons and penetrative intercourse should be avoided until you are fully healed, usually within 4-8 weeks, to avoid the risk of infection. Regular checking is necessary after treatment. If you experience severe pain that doesn’t go away by using pain killers, heavy bleeding or an unpleasant smelling discharge post-treatment you should contact your GP.
For more information:http://en.eliza.hk/profile/News-Events/219.html
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