Cervical Stenosis

Cervical stenosis is a troublesome clinical problem that usually follows surgery on the cervix but may also be seen with endometrial and cervical cancer. The passageway through the cervix (from the vagina to the main body of the uterus) becomes narrow or completely closed. The traditional treatment is cervical dilatation but there is a high recurrence rate.

It often causes no symptoms, but rarely, the uterus fills with blood or pus.

Other causes may include:

• Menopause, due to thinning of the tissues in the cervix (atrophy)
• Procedures that destroy or remove the lining of the uterus in women with persistent vaginal bleeding
• Radiation therapy to the pelvic region.

Symptoms of Cervical Stenosis

Cervical stenosis usually causes no symptoms.

If cervical stenosis occurs before menopause, it may cause menstrual abnormalities, such as no periods, painful periods, abnormal bleeding, or infertility.

If there is blood or pus in the uterus, pain or a bulging abdomen may be seen.

Treatment of Cervical Stenosis

Treatment is only considered necessary in women with symptoms or blood or pus in the uterus. The cervix is widened (dilated) using small, lubricated metal rods (dilators) that progressively get larger. A cervical stent may be placed in the cervix for 4 to 6 weeks.