Cervical Problems

The Amara Clinic offers specialist assessment of cervical problems, expert cervical smear testing and well-woman screening to prevent cervical cancer and protect your future health.

If you need a cervical smear or are worried about symptoms, The Amara Clinic's specialist team can assess your symptoms, examine your cervix and take diagnostic tests in a safe, comfortable and stress-free environment.

What is the cervix?

The cervix is the neck of your womb, where the uterus joins the vagina. It is the part of the womb that opens during labour to allow a baby to be born. This is a key part of female anatomy, which is susceptible to changes due to hormones, infections including STIs, pregnancy and general ageing. Fortunately, most cervical problems are benign and self-limiting. Our team of experts doctors are here to help you deal with any concerns.

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What are the symptoms of cervical problems?

Some cervical disorders don't cause any symptoms, which is why regular smear tests are an essential part of health screening for women. However, some cervical problems cause symptoms including:

Discharge: Increased vaginal discharge, which can be smelly or unpleasant, particularly if you have an infection.

Abnormal vaginal bleeding: You may bleed in-between periods, after sex, following the menopause or in an erratic pattern throughout the month. When the bleeding comes from the cervix, it is typically bright red, surprisingly heavy and pain-free.

Pelvic pain: Cervical problems can cause pain in the pelvis that lasts throughout your cycle.

Pain during sex: Cervical problems can cause pain particularly during deep penetration and in certain positions.

These symptoms can be concerning and if they persist for more than a few months should be assessed by a medical practitioner.

What are cervical problems?

Cervical problems are disorders of the cervix or the neck of the womb, and they range from mild but irritating to very serious. If you are concerned about your gynaecological health, The Amara Clinic can help. Cervical problems include:

  • Cervical polyps: Polyps are small, non-cancerous growth that can cause pain, bleeding after sex, heavy periods and a discharge.
  • Cervical erosions: An erosion or ectropion happens when cells from inside the cervix spread onto the outside. They’re often caused by hormonal changes such as the pill or pregnancy. An erosion is harmless but can cause bleeding, especially after sex.
  • Cervical cysts: Cervical cysts are usually Nabothian cysts, which are fluid-filled swellings in the cervix; they usually cause no symptoms and require no treatment.
  • Infections: Infections of the cervix are usually transmitted through sexual intercourse. The most common STIs affecting the cervix are chlamydia and gonorrhoea, which are linked to cervicitis or inflammation of the cervix. Symptoms include an unpleasant discharge, pelvic pain and bleeding. Infections need prompt and effective treatment to prevent pelvic infection and fertility problems.
  • Pre-cancerous changes of the cervix: Cervical smear tests examine the cells which line the neck of the womb. They can identify abnormalities before cancer develops. Pre-cancerous changes don't usually cause symptoms, which is why smear tests are so necessary. By picking up a problem early, any abnormal cells can be destroyed and the risk of cancer is hugely reduced.
  • Cervical cancer: Cervical cancer affects 3,000 women in the UK every year. It can cause pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, bleeding after sex and bleeding between periods or after the menopause. It can also cause pain during intercourse, discharge and pain in your lower back.

When should you seek expert help for cervical symptoms?

If you are worried about symptoms that could be linked to cervical problems, you should arrange medical assessmentpromptly. You may have a harmless issue like an erosion, but quick action and effective treatment save lives.

If you experience bleeding after sex, bleeding after the menopause or sporadic bleedingor you have an unpleasant and abnormal discharge, experts generally recommend seeking advice, particularly if the symptoms are persistent. Miss Anne Henderson, The Amara Clinic's experienced Consultant Gynaecologist can assess your symptoms, examine your cervix and arrange any necessary tests.

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Why choose The Amara Clinic?

Consultant-led care

The clinic is led by Miss Anne Henderson, a highly experienced Consultant Gynaecologist and accredited British Menopause Society (BMS) specialist, one of only 200 specialists across the UK. She works with an experienced multi-disciplinary team to support women during the menopause and throughout their reproductive lives.

Seamless service

All your requirements including consultations, investigations diagnostic tests, surgical procedures and prescriptions can be accessed in-house through a seamless process which rarely requires external referrals. Most women will see the same practitioner throughout their treatment journey, receiving not only a high level of expertise but also continuity of care.

One-stop service

At The Amara Clinic our mission is to make it easy for all women to access the quality healthcare they need. We offer a wide range of services including face-to-face and virtual appointments depending on your needs and location. We can also provide an extensive range of investigations including blood tests and imaging, treatments and private prescriptions. Our medical team cover a comprehensive selection of health concerns including general gynaecology, perimenopause and menopause, cervical screening and Well Woman health checks.

Healthcare by women for women

We offer personalised treatment and sensitive support in a comfortable, private space. The Amara Clinic offers exceptional bespoke health and menopause care in a boutique clinic in the heart of Tunbridge Wells as well as virtual consultations for patients across the world.

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