Cervicitis Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Herbal Remedies and Ayurvedic Treatment

Abstract

Cervicitis is the inflammation of the cervix and the lower end of the narrow end of the uterus which gets opened into the vagina. The uterus is the female reproductive organ, which is a hormone-responsive sex organ which is helpful in secreting uterine milk for the nourishment of the Embryo. The human uterus is located within the pelvic region and in front of the sigmoid colon. Uterus has Three layers from the inner to the outer layer of the uterine wall Endometrium, Myometrium and Perimetrium. The uterus is known as Womb which is the inverted pear-shaped muscular organ located between the bladder and the rectum. The uterus lies in Anteversion and Anteflexion positions, the uterine cavity opens into the vaginal cavity and makes the Birth Canal together. The uterus is supported by the pelvic diaphragm, Perineal body and the urogenital diaphragm. In this article, we are going to discuss the causes, symptoms and  ayurvedic concepts in detail.

Introduction

Cervicitis is the inflammation of the cervix, the lower end of the uterus, it can be infectious or non-infectious inflammation of the cervix. Cervicitis is most common in women and is accompanied by vaginal discharge, bleeding or pain during intercourse. During labor, the cervix gets dilated, allowing the baby to pass through the endocervical canal (birth canal). An inflammatory process in the cervical epithelium and stroma is usually associated with Trauma, Neoplasia and infections. This infection and inflammation lead to swollen, red, mucus which can bleed easily when touched. If cervicitis remains untreated it moves up into the uterus and fallopian tube causing Pelvic inflammatory disease.

Which Bacteria Causes Cervicitis?

Cervicitis is developed due to Staphylococcus and Streptococcus bacteria which come in contact with the uterus.

Causes of Cervicitis?

The most common cause of this inflammation is an infection which can be due to sexually transmitted disease. Can be either Acute (sudden onset of symptoms) or Chronic (lasts for several months).

1. Sexually Transmitted infections such as Bacterial and Viral infections include Gonorrhea, Chlamydia and Genital herpes.
2. Allergic Reactions- Such as Douches and feminine deodorants cause cervicitis.
3. Bacterial Overgrowth
4. Radiation Therapy
5. Pregnancy
6. Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma 

Types of Cervicitis

There are two types of cervicitis

1. Acute Cervicitis

It is an endocervical infection, which is usually followed by childbirth, abortion and various operations. The various organisms involved are- Streptococcus and E. Coli and sometimes caused due to Gonococcus or Chlamydia trachomatis. The organisms get entry into the glands of the endocervix and produce acute inflammation which spreads in an upward direction involving the parametrium.

Clinical features

1. Mucopurulent discharge
2. The cervix is tender to touch
3. The cervix looks edematous and congested.
4. Vaginal examination is painful

2. Chronic Cervicitis

It is the most typical lesion which is found in women performing gynecological procedures. This infection is followed by childbirth and abortion by various pyogenic organisms. Chlamydia trachomatis is a more common organism in this.

Pathology

1. The mucosa and deeper tissues are congested and fibrosis in the plasma cells.
2. The glands get hypertrophied with the increase in secretory activity.
3. The mouth gets closed with fibrosis which causes a retention cyst (Nabothian follicles). This is known as Chronic Endocervicitis.

Clinical Features

1. Excessive mucus discharge.
2. Low backache
3. Dyspareunia
4. Congestive dysmenorrhoea.

Symptoms

1. Abnormal vaginal discharge which can be yellow, white and gray in color.
2. Light vaginal bleeding
3. Vaginal irritation
4. Painful sexual intercourse
5. Pelvic Pain
6. Frequent urination
7. Backache

Diagnosis

1. Pelvic examination
2. Pap Smear Test
3. Cervical Biopsy
4. Cervical discharge culture
5. Ultrasound

Treatment

1. Antibiotics
2. Antifungal medication
3. Antiviral medications
4. Electrocautery
5. Cryotherapy
6. Laser   

Complication

1. PID (Pelvic inflammatory disease)
2. Infertility problems
3. Risk of getting HIV (Human immunodeficiency virus)

Ayurvedic Aspect

Cervicitis is not a single disease but it is an infectious condition but it has similarities with both Upapluta and Acharana. Cervicitis is considered an Agantuja Vyadhi which is caused due to infections. Upapluta Lakshans are the pain in the genital regions, with excessive vaginal discharges. Acharana is an infectious condition which causes vaginal itching and excess vaginal discharge.

Upapluta is one among 20 types of Gynecological disorders which is mainly seen due to the aggravation of Kapha doshas which is vitiated with Vata doshas which contaminates the uterus and produces various abnormalities.

Acharana– It is one among 20 gynecological disorders which is due to improper maintenance of the genital health of the women. The parasites and microbes develop a non-cleanliness of the vaginal canal which causes Acharanam.

Nidana of Cervicitis

1. Krimi/parasite infestation
2. Factors which vitiate Rakta and Kapha doshas
3. Unprotected sex

Pathogenesis of Cervicitis

It is considered an Agantuja Vyadhi (infection), the microorganisms enter into the body and vitiate various doshas which further vitiates Rakta, Mamsa dhatus which produces various symptoms.  

Chikitsa

In ayurveda, the treatment is mainly concentrated on cutting the infection locally and cleansing/Detoxifying the whole body. The various local procedures include-

1. Yoniprakshalana– Washing the vulvar area and vagina with herbal decoctions
2. Yonidhoopana- It is the fumigation of the outer part of the vulval regions
3. Yonipratisarana- Powdering the area with fine herbal
4. Yoni Pichu- Use of Tampons with medicated ghee/Oils preparation
5. Uttar Basti- It is the application and retention of herbal formulation inside the vaginal region for specific time intervals like an enema and then flushes out.

External Therapies Such As Ayurvedic Panchkarma-

1. Virechana (Therapeutic purgation)
2. Vasti (Medicated enema)

Herbs Useful In Cervicitis

1. Guggul

Guggul (Commiphora wightii) is helpful in removing the Ama doshas which results in sluggish digestion and circulation. It is helpful in balancing the Tridoshas of the body and is helpful in increasing the hemoglobin and enhancing the quality and power of blood. Is a good uterine stimulant which causes uterine contraction. Controls the Vata doshas which enhances proper digestion and reproductive mechanism.

2. Bilva

Bilva (Aegle marmelos) is helpful in enhancing digestion and keeping the intestines healthy. Balances tridoshas of the body and relieves inflammation. It is helpful in balancing the female reproductive system such as menstrual irregularities and leucorrhea. It’s anti-diarrheal and anti-microbial properties. Relieves dyspepsia.

3. Gokshura

Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris) is helpful in balancing the tridoshas of the body and is helpful in increasing libido and enhancing energy and vitality. Useful in maintaining the healthy functioning of the urinary system. Reduces the menopausal symptoms and reduces vaginal dryness and mood issues.

4. Lodhra

Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa) is helpful in nourishing the skin and pacifying the Kapha and Pitta doshas. Improves the health of women and relaxes the tissues of the uterus. Maintains the proper shape of the body and is useful in epistaxis and useful in the thickening of blood to stop the hemorrhage. Reduces inflammation and heaviness in the body.

Herbal Remedies for Cervicitis by Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda is a GMP- Certified Clinic which formulates various herbal remedies for maintaining health as well as alleviating various health conditions. All the formulations which are made are free from any kind of additives, preservatives and colors. These remedies are 100% pure and the formulations are made under the strict guidance of M.D Ayurvedic Experts. For this, Planet Ayurveda formulates various herbal supplements which will be helpful in the disease without causing any side effects.

Products List

1. KAISHORE GUGGUL
2. FEMALE HEALTH SUPPORT
3. BOSWELLIA CURCUMIN
4. FEMO PLAN SYRUP
5. LUCO PLAN SYRUP

Products Description

1. Kaishore Guggul

Kaishore Guggul are herbal tablet formulation which is made by planet ayurveda using Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Ginger (Zingiber officinale), Vidanga (Embelia ribes), Indian Jalp (Ipomoea turpethum) and many more. It is helpful in supporting the healthy flow of blood and improves the functions of the body. Is a natural blood cleanser and is used in inflammatory conditions.

Dosage- 2 tablets twice daily after meals with plain water.

2. Female Health Support

Female Health Support is a polyherbal capsule which is made by planet ayurveda using various ingredients such as Ashok (Saraca indica), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa). It is helpful in maintaining the overall health of the females and balances the hormones. Strengthen the reproductive organs and improve lactation.

Dosage– 1 capsule twice daily after meals with plain water

3. Boswellia Curcumin

Boswellia Curcumin are polyherbal capsules which are made by planet ayurveda using Shallaki (Boswellia serrata) and Curcumin (Curcuma longa). It is helpful in maintaining overall health and supports healthy joints. Rich in antioxidants and supports a healthy cardiovascular system. Has anti-inflammatory properties and is useful in all types of joint pain.

Dosage– 1 capsule twice daily after meals with plain water

4. Femo Plan Syrup

Femo Plan Syrup is a herbal syrup formulation by planet ayurveda using Agnimantha (Premna serratifolia), Brihati (Solanum indicum), Shalparni (Desmodium gangeticum) and Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Patha (Cissampelos pareira) and many more. It is helpful in the treatment of ovarian cysts and reduces the pain. Manages amenorrhea and pain during menstruation. Prevents microbial replication and kills the microorganisms.

Dosage– 2 teaspoons twice daily with plain water after meals.

5. Luco Plan Syrup

Luco Plan Syrup is herbal syrup formulated by planet Ayurveda using Babool (Acacia nilotica), Aamra (Mangifera indica), Neem (Azadirachta indica) and many more. It is helpful in sticky vaginal discharge and itching in the genital area. Pacify the Kapha doshas which corrects the impairment of Rasa dhatu in the vaginal tract. Restores the digestive fire and clears toxins.

Dosage– 2 teaspoons twice daily after meals with plain water.

Conclusion

Cervicitis is the inflammation of the cervix and the lower end of the narrow end of the uterus which gets opened into the vagina. The uterus is the female reproductive organ, which is a hormone-responsive sex organ which is helpful in secreting uterine milk for the nourishment of the Embryo. An inflammatory process in the cervical epithelium and stroma is usually associated with Trauma, Neoplasia and infections. Cervicitis is not a single disease but it is an infectious condition but it has similarities with both Upapluta and Acharana. Cervicitis is considered an Agantuja Vyadhi which is caused due to infections. After we discussed herbal supplements by planet ayurveda which are helpful in this disease without causing any side effects.