By Dr. Alejandro Olloqui Escalona (Licensed Gynecologist – 282867126).
Cervicitis is an inflammation of the uterine cervix (the lower part of the uterus that connects it to the vagina). It may appear suddenly or develop as a chronic condition. This condition often goes unnoticed, as it does not always present clear symptoms, but it is relatively common in women of reproductive age.
A woman’s reproductive health depends on hundreds of different factors that can complicate, to varying degrees, the achievement of pregnancy. Among these factors is the health of the cervix, and one of the most common conditions affecting this area is cervicitis—an inflammation of the uterine cervix which, although usually easy to treat, can lead to complications if not diagnosed and managed in time. In some cases, it may even affect female fertility.
Although symptoms are not always evident, some women may experience:
These symptoms can be confused with other gynecological infections, making medical diagnosis essential to determine the underlying cause.

As with other conditions, the causes are varied. The most common are:
Cervicitis alters cervical mucus and the environment of the cervix, which is where a woman’s fertility can be impacted. Cervical mucus plays a key role in conception, as it facilitates the passage of sperm into the uterus. When the cervix is inflamed, the composition of this mucus can change, becoming thicker and more hostile to sperm, making their movement more difficult.

Cervicitis alone rarely causes severe infertility. The greatest risk appears when the underlying infection ascends and leads to pelvic inflammatory disease, which can affect the uterus and fallopian tubes, compromising fertility.
Diagnosing cervicitis requires a gynecological examination and complementary tests such as vaginal discharge culture, Pap smear, or colposcopy. Once the cause is identified, treatment may include antibiotics or antivirals if an infection is present, or local anti-inflammatory treatments and hygiene measures to restore the balance of the cervical mucosa.
In cases of chronic cervicitis, more specific procedures may be necessary, such as cauterization or laser treatment of the inflamed tissue. After treatment, thorough medical follow-up is essential to confirm resolution and prevent recurrences that may compromise long-term fertility.