The cervix is the opening of the uterus and is located in the upper end of the vagina. Cervical dysplasia is a medical condition that occurs when the cells of the cervix change. This abnormal change typically stems from an infection to the cervix. Cervical dysplasia is a precursor to cervical cancer. After diagnosis, the physician categorizes the cervical dysplasia. The categories include mild changes to the cervical cells (CIN I), moderate changes to the cells (CIN II) and severe dysplasia, including cervical cancer (CIN III). Treatments exist for ending cervical dysplasia, but the best option is to avoid the start of the condition.
Causes
The most common cause of cervical dysplasia is from an infection involving the cervix. The human papilloma virus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) that causes the infection. The symptoms of HPV include genital warts, but many times, there are no symptoms associated with the infection.
Risk Factors
Females who have sexual intercourse before the age of 18 have an increased risk for developing cervical dysplasia. Having multiple sex partners also increases the risk, because it increases the risk of exposure to HPV. Smoking, a suppressed immune system and giving birth before the age of 16 also increase the risk of developing cervical dysplasia, states MedlinePlus.
Symptoms
The changes to the cells in the cervix do not always display symptoms. Sometimes warts are visible on the cervix, but they do not cause pain or discomfort. Other times, low back pain or abnormal vaginal bleeding, spotting or discharge may occur, states the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis for cervical dysplasia occurs after a pelvic exam and a pap smear. A pap smear is a test in which a cotton-tipped swab is used to remove cells from the cervix. After examining the abnormal cells under the microscope, the physician diagnoses cervical dysplasia. Additional procedures, such as a cone biopsy, help classify the degree of damage to the cervix.
Treatment
Treatment for cervical dysplasia varies depending on the severity of the condition. A mild change in the abnormal cells may resolve itself, states the American Social Health Association. More severe cases of cervical dysplasia require treatment. The physician uses one of several treatment options to remove the abnormal cells from the cervix. Cryosurgery, a LEEP procedure or surgery can all assist in removing the cells. Followup pap smears need repeating every three to six months for females with any degree of cervical dysplasia, states Medline Plus.
Complications
If left untreated, cervical dysplasia might lead to cervical cancer. Keeping a close watch on the changes to the cells of the cervix is important for a recurrence of the dysplasia.
Prevention
Because HPV commonly causes cervical dysplasia, protecting against STDs helps protect against cervical dysplasia. To decrease the chance of contracting HPV, abstain from sexual intercourse, limit the sexual partner to one person who is STD-free and use a barrier method of contraception, such as latex condoms.
