Your cervix is located at the lower end of your uterus, connecting it to your vagina. It’s made primarily of fibrous tissue, and like any other body part, it can suffer damage or injury — from sexual intercourse, infection, and more.
Cervical pain may feel like vague pelvic discomfort, making it difficult to identify on your own. If you have a cervix injury or infection, you might notice symptoms like:
If you’re concerned about pelvic pain or unusual symptoms, it’s important to get a professional diagnosis. At Solace Women's Care, Farly Sejour, MD, and our team are proud to provide comprehensive care for women of all ages.
Whether your doctor identifies cervical trauma during your annual well-woman exam or you notice symptoms like unusual bleeding or pain, take a moment to learn more about the common causes of trauma to your cervix.
Your cervix is located between your uterus and your vaginal canal. Depending on your anatomy, it could be anywhere from 3-7 inches from the vaginal opening, and it’s possible to reach through your vagina.
Deep penetration with a penis or other object during sexual intercourse could reach and bruise your cervix. If you suffer cervical bruising during sex, it generally hurts immediately, and it may make penetration uncomfortable until the injury heals.
Other symptoms may include bleeding, spotting, or lower back pain. Mild bruising may heal within a few days, but frequent bruising or more severe symptoms could indicate a more serious condition.
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) like chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause irritation, infection, and pain inside the vaginal canal and cervix. When left untreated, STDs can cause cervical trauma and cervicitis, which is inflammation of the cervix, a common cause of discomfort.
STDs themselves may not have noticeable symptoms, so the only way to get a diagnosis is through STD testing. Talk to Dr. Sejour about the STD testing that’s right for you.
Humanpapillomavirus (HPV) is a type of sexually transmitted virus that can lead to cervical cancer if left untreated. Like other STDs, HPV might not have noticeable symptoms at first. Our team offers cervical cancer screenings for women based on their health, age, and other risk factors.
Pregnancy, labor, and delivery commonly cause irritation and trauma to the cervix. Extra blood is sent to tissues around the cervix during pregnancy, making it more sensitive. Also, your growing baby puts your pelvic organs and cervix under increased pressure.
Incompetent cervix is a condition that some women develop during pregnancy because their cervix isn’t strong enough to remain closed before they reach full term. Incompetent cervix affects only about 1 in 100 pregnancies, but it could lead to miscarriage or premature delivery.
Vaginal birth may cause trauma to your cervix. Giving birth more than once may increase your risk of cervical tears during labor, and dilation and curettage (D&C) from an abortion or miscarriage may also cause cervical trauma.
Make an appointment if you’re experiencing pelvic pain, discomfort, or unusual bleeding. Dr. Sejour and our team offer comprehensive pelvic exams to evaluate your health and diagnose your condition to ensure you’re enjoying your best health.
Call our Conroe, Texas, office at 936-441-7100 or send us a message today.
