The cervix is the lower, narrowest, neck-like portion of the uterus. It forms a canal from the largest section of the uterus and opens into the vagina. A concentration of specialized cells called epithelial cells forms epithelial tissue, which creates part of the lining of the cervix. Cervical ectropion — sometimes called cervical erosion — occurs when this lining of epithelial tissue, called the central columnnar epithelium, protrudes outside of the cervix.

This condition was called cervical ectropion because as the term “ectropion” suggests, there is an appearance of ulceration. There is no actual ulceration, however. The red and raw appearance that accompanies the condition is only because of the natural color and texture of the central columnar epithelium. Therefore, an increasing number of medical professionals have begun to refer to cervical ectropion as cervical ectopy.

Most women who have this condition do not experience symptoms. If a larger region of the cervix is affected, however, symptoms can include an increase of vaginal discharge. This excessive discharge should be clear. It will be pearl-colored and have a foul odor only if the cervical ectropion is coupled with the presence of infection. Bleeding after intercourse or passing hard stool can also occur when this condition is present.

Cervical ectropion is relatively common, and it usually develops during pregnancy, during puberty or with the taking of birth control pills. This is because during these events, the cervix enlarges, which can cause the columnar epithelium to protrude out from the cervical canal. Cervical ectropion also can be caused by congenital factors, infections or chemicals from douches or spermaticidal contraceptives. Vaginal trauma from intercourse or the insertion of a tampon or foreign object also might cause this condition.

Most women do not experience symptoms, so this condition usually does not require treatment and will gradually go away on its own. If problematic symptoms occur or if the condition does not correct itself, there are several treatment options. Hormone therapy or a discontinuation of oral contraceptives is sometimes prescribed to address the condition. Cryotherapy, which is freezing the area, and diathermy, or cauterizing it, can also be used to treat cervical ectropion. Cryotherapy and diathermy are usually painless and can be done on an outpatient basis.

Treatment is not always a permanent solution, because the cell tissues from the columnnar epithelium can always grow back or become extended again. Women who are taking oral contraceptives have a higher probability of reoccurrence. Even though cervical ectropion is a non-cancerous condition in and of itself, cancer screens are usually rendered in conjunction with the examination and treatment of cervical ectropion. This is because there is an overlap of symptoms for cancer and cervical ectropion.