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Cervical Ectropion (Cervical Erosion)

A benign condition where columnar epithelium is exposed on the outer surface of the cervix.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department. Book Appointment →

What is Cervical Ectropion (Cervical Erosion)?

Cervical ectropion (also known as cervical erosion or cervical eversion) is a physiologic condition where the columnar (glandular) epithelium normally covering the cervical canal (endocervix) is everted/exposed on the cervical outer surface (ectocervix). The columnar epithelium is thinner and more vascular than the squamous epithelium, so it appears as a red, soft, granular surface around the cervical os.

It is a physiologic finding (not pathology) that can occur at any age; common conditions: adolescents, young women, pregnancy (estrogen effect), hormonal contraceptive use (combined OCP), DES exposure (in older women). Most patients are asymptomatic and the diagnosis is incidentally made during gynecologic examination or Pap smear.

Clinically, it should be distinguished from cervical neoplasia (CIN, cervical cancer); colposcopy and Pap smear are mandatory in the presence of bleeding, abnormal discharge, or a suspicious appearance. Most ectropion lesions resolve spontaneously after stopping the hormonal trigger or postpartum. In symptomatic cases, electrocautery, cryotherapy, or laser ablation can be performed.

Symptoms

Usually asymptomatic (incidental finding)
Postcoital (after intercourse) bleeding
Intermenstrual spotting bleeding
Increased vaginal discharge (clear, mucoid)
Recurrent vaginitis-cervicitis
Mild low back, pelvic pain (rare)
Sometimes burning urination (irritation)
Bleeding after Pap smear
Speculum examination: red-velvety appearance around cervical os

Risk Factors

Adolescence and young age (high estrogen effect)
Pregnancy (especially second-third trimester)
Combined oral contraceptive use
Hormone replacement therapy
DES (diethylstilbestrol) intrauterine exposure
Multiparity
Recurrent cervicitis
Sexual activity (mechanical effect)
IUD use (mild)
Hormonal imbalances (PCOS)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Postcoital bleeding
  • Persistent intermenstrual bleeding
  • Heavy yellow-green foul-smelling discharge
  • Pelvic pain accompanying bleeding
  • Cervical erosion appearance after age 40
  • Postmenopausal vaginal bleeding (cervical cancer rule out)
  • Abnormal Pap smear result
  • Suspicious appearance on cervix

Treatment Methods

01
Pap smear (cervical cancer screening)
02
HPV test (high-risk types)
03
Colposcopy (in case of suspicion - acetic acid, Schiller test)
04
Cervical biopsy (suspicious areas)
05
STI screening (Chlamydia, gonorrhea)
06
Asymptomatic ectropion: no treatment needed (just follow-up)
07
Stop combined OCP (if symptomatic) - switch to progesterone-only
08
Resolves spontaneously postpartum (3-6 months)
09
Symptomatic treatment options:
10
- Electrocautery (most common, office procedure)
11
- Cryotherapy
12
- Laser ablation
13
- Topical boric acid
14
Treatment of accompanying cervicitis (antibiotic)
15
Annual gynecologic examination and Pap smear follow-up

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.