What causes the cervix to become smaller

The narrowing of the cervix may be caused by factors such as cervicitis, abnormal hormone levels, surgical trauma, congenital developmental abnormalities, and age.

1. Cervicitis:

Chronic cervicitis may lead to fibrosis of cervical tissue, causing narrowing of the cervical canal. Common pathogens include mycoplasma, chlamydia, etc. Long term untreated conditions can lead to scar contractures. Clinical manifestations include increased vaginal discharge and contact bleeding, which require confirmation through colposcopy and pathogen testing.

2. Abnormal hormone levels:

Insufficient secretion of estrogen can affect the elasticity of cervical tissue, commonly seen in perimenopausal women or patients with premature ovarian failure. This type of situation may be accompanied by symptoms such as reduced menstrual flow and vaginal dryness, and should be evaluated through six tests of sex hormones.

3. Surgical trauma:

Cervical conization, LEEP knife surgery, and other procedures may cause cervical canal adhesion. Excessive deposition of collagen during postoperative wound healing can lead to cervical canal stenosis, and in severe cases, it may affect menstrual flow, which needs to be confirmed by hysteroscopy.

4. Congenital developmental abnormalities:

Mullerian duct hypoplasia may manifest as congenital stenosis of the cervical canal, often accompanied by uterine malformations. These patients may experience primary amenorrhea or severe dysmenorrhea after puberty, and 3D ultrasound or MRI can assist in diagnosis.

5. Age factor:

Postmenopausal women experience a decrease in estrogen levels, causing cervical tissue to shrink and harden, and the cervical canal to gradually narrow. This is a normal degenerative change that usually does not require special treatment, but other pathological factors need to be ruled out.

It is recommended that women with cervical stenosis maintain regular gynecological examinations and undergo cervical TCT and HPV screening at least once a year. Avoid using alkaline wash to wash the vagina in daily life, and choose nursing products containing lactic acid bacteria to maintain bacterial balance. Moderate Kegel exercise can enhance pelvic floor muscle strength, but it is necessary to avoid pelvic congestion caused by intense exercise. Eat more plant-based foods with high estrogen content, such as soy products and flaxseed, and if necessary, undergo cervical dilation treatment or hormone replacement therapy under the guidance of a doctor.