Abnormal Bleeding: Insights on Cervical Erosion and Treatment

Abnormal bleeding

Hello doctor, my menstrual period was from December 8 to December 14, during which I had sexual intercourse.
After that, I experienced continuous bleeding until the 24th, when I visited a doctor.
The doctor diagnosed me with cervical erosion but did not perform a Pap smear.
Instead, he prescribed hemostatic medication and suppositories.
I returned for a follow-up on the 27th, and he prescribed suppositories again but did not give me any hemostatic medication, instructing me to return for a follow-up in a month.
However, I started bleeding again on December 30, and I have been using the suppositories as scheduled.
Is this situation concerning? Should I wait a month for the next appointment, or should I go back on January 2? I have also started taking cranberry tablets; will they help speed up the healing of cervical erosion? Is it advisable to use suppositories during menstruation?

Zhu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/12/31

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Menstruation occurred from December 8 to December 14, and I had sexual intercourse during that period.
Afterward, I continued to bleed until the 24th, when I visited a doctor.
The doctor diagnosed me with cervical erosion but did not perform a Pap smear.
Instead, he prescribed hemostatic medication and suppositories.
On the 27th, I returned for a follow-up, and he prescribed suppositories again but did not provide any hemostatic medication, instructing me to return for a follow-up in a month.
However, I started bleeding again on December 30, and I have been using the suppositories as scheduled.
Is this concerning? Should I wait a month for the next appointment, or should I go back on January 2?
Answer: Menstruation was from December 8 to December 14, and I continued to bleed until the 24th.
The doctor prescribed hemostatic medication and suppositories, but I started bleeding again on December 30.
It is advisable to visit a larger hospital for a second opinion.
I have started taking cranberry tablets; will this help speed up the healing of cervical erosion?
Answer: Cranberry tablets will not accelerate the healing of cervical erosion.
Is it advisable to use suppositories during menstruation?
Answer: It is not convenient to use them during menstruation.

Reply Date: 2018/12/31

More Info

Understanding abnormal bleeding, particularly in the context of cervical erosion (also known as cervical ectropion), is crucial for ensuring proper treatment and management. Cervical erosion is a condition where the cells lining the cervix become inflamed or eroded, often leading to abnormal bleeding, especially after sexual intercourse or during menstruation.
In your case, you experienced bleeding after your menstrual period and following sexual activity. The diagnosis of cervical erosion was made by your doctor, who prescribed hemostatic medications and vaginal suppositories. However, it’s concerning that a Pap smear was not performed during your visit, as this test is essential for evaluating cervical health and ruling out any potential malignancies or infections.

Regarding your questions:
1. Is it normal to continue bleeding? Continuous bleeding after a diagnosis of cervical erosion can occur, especially if the cervix is irritated. However, if the bleeding persists or worsens, it is important to follow up with your healthcare provider sooner than the scheduled month. It’s advisable to seek medical attention if you experience heavy bleeding, severe pain, or any other concerning symptoms.

2. Should you wait a month for a follow-up? While your doctor suggested a follow-up in a month, given that you are still experiencing bleeding, it would be prudent to contact your doctor and possibly schedule an earlier appointment. It’s essential to ensure that there are no underlying issues that require immediate attention.

3. Will cranberry supplements help? Cranberry supplements are often taken for urinary tract health and may have some benefits in preventing infections, but they are not a treatment for cervical erosion. They will not necessarily speed up the healing of cervical erosion. It’s essential to focus on the treatment prescribed by your healthcare provider and follow their recommendations.

4. Can you use suppositories during menstruation? Generally, it is not recommended to use vaginal suppositories during menstruation, as menstrual flow can interfere with the effectiveness of the medication. You should consult your doctor regarding the use of suppositories during your menstrual period.

5. What should you do next? If you continue to experience bleeding or have any new symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical advice sooner rather than later. You may also want to discuss the possibility of a Pap smear and any other diagnostic tests that could provide more information about your cervical health.

In summary, while cervical erosion can lead to abnormal bleeding, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely and maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. If you have any concerns about your condition or the treatment you are receiving, do not hesitate to seek a second opinion or ask for further evaluations. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, and timely intervention can prevent complications.

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