Pharmacological Treatments and Procedural Treatments on Cervicitis
The Medicines and Methods of Treatment on Cervicitis
I. Pharmacological Treatments
1. Antibiotics
- Indications: Bacterial cervicitis (e.g., gonococcal or chlamydial infections).
- Common Drugs:
- Azithromycin: Oral medication for chlamydial infections.
- Doxycycline: Broad-spectrum antibiotic for various bacterial infections.
- Ceftriaxone: Injectable antibiotic for gonococcal infections.
- Note: Antibiotics should be selected based on pathogen sensitivity testing to avoid misuse.
2. Antifungal Agents
- Indications: Concurrent fungal infections (e.g., candidal vaginitis).
- Common Drugs:
- Clotrimazole Suppositories : Topical vaginal treatment.
- Fluconazole: Oral antifungal for recurrent infections.
3. Antiviral Medications
- Indications: Viral cervicitis (e.g., HSV or HPV infections).
- Common Drugs:
- Acyclovir: Oral or topical treatment for HSV infections.
- Interferon Suppositories (e.g., recombinant human interferon α-2b): Adjunctive therapy for HPV infections, requiring medical evaluation.
4. Topical Anti-inflammatory/Reparative Agents
- Indications: Chronic cervicitis with cervical erosion or tissue repair.
- Common Products:
- Aluminium flip off seal: Traditional Chinese herbal suppositories containing zedoary turmeric oil to reduce inflammation.
- Policresulen Vaginal Suppositories: Promotes anti-inflammatory, hemostatic, and tissue repair effects.
- Probiotic Preparations: Restore vaginal microbiota balance.
II. Procedural Treatments
For chronic cervicitis, cervical erosion, or cases unresponsive to medication (performed by specialists):
1. Laser Therapy: COâ laser vaporizes damaged tissue to promote epithelial regeneration.
2. Cryotherapy: Destroys abnormal cells using liquid nitrogen.
3. Microwave/Radiofrequency Therapy: Uses thermal effects to reduce inflammation and aid tissue repair.
4. LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure): Removes high-grade cervical lesions.
III. Adjunctive Therapies & Self-Care
1. Gynecological Cleansers
- Examples: Mild solutions containing povidone-iodine or chlorhexidine.
- Note: Avoid excessive vaginal douching to prevent microbial imbalance.
2. Immune Support
- Vitamin C and Zinc: Boost immune function.
- HPV Vaccines: Prevent high-risk HPV infections (e.g., bivalent, quadrivalent, or nonavalent vaccines).
3. Herbal/Plant Extracts
- Examples: 'Honeysuckle, Sophora flavescens', and 'Phellodendron amurense' extracts for anti-inflammatory effects (use under TCM practitioner guidance).
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IV. Key Considerations
1. Diagnosis First: Confirm etiology via pelvic exams, vaginal discharge tests, and HPV/DNA screening before treatment.
2. Avoid: Sexual intercourse, baths, and irritants during treatment; maintain perineal hygiene.
3. Follow-ups: Regular monitoring, especially for HPV persistence or precancerous changes.
4. Caution with Unverified Products: Avoid unregulated gels or "internet-famous" products that may worsen symptoms.
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V. When to Seek Medical Help
Untreated cervicitis may lead to chronic inflammation, infertility, or precancerous lesions. Seek prompt care for:
- Abnormal discharge (yellow-green, purulent, bloody).
- Postcoital bleeding, pelvic pain.
- Vulvar itching or burning.
Summary: Cervicitis management requires personalized strategies targeting pathogens and tissue repair, combined with healthy habits (e.g., adequate sleep, avoiding spicy foods). Always rely on evidence-based medical care—avoid unproven "miracle cures." Consult healthcare professionals for safe and effective treatment.