Health
Fact-checked

At TheHealthBoard, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What are the Most Common Cervical Stenosis Symptoms?

Erin J. Hill
Erin J. Hill

Many women have stenosis of the cervix and never even know it. This is because even the most common cervical stenosis symptoms are not overly common for most women and can easily be mistaken for something else. Cervical stenosis is a narrowing of the lower region of the cervix, which is the opening of the womb or uterus. The most common signs of cervical stenosis, although rare, include irregular or lack of menstruation, painful menstruation, and infertility in women who have not yet reached menopause.

In some rare cases, a woman may feel a lump in her lower abdomen because the cervical stenosis can lead to a hematometra and cause a swelling of the uterus as pus and blood accumulate inside the womb. Cervical stenosis is often related to other conditions, such as cervical cancer or cancer treatments. Younger women may notice irregular periods or bleeding between periods, but this can also be a symptom of many other conditions. Painful periods are also common with other endometrial conditions.

Though rare, one symptom of cervical stenosis is painful menstruation.
Though rare, one symptom of cervical stenosis is painful menstruation.

Probably the most noticeable of cervical stenosis symptoms would be a lack of menstruation in women who are still in their childbearing years. Once pregnancy has been ruled out, a physical exam is often performed and may lead to a diagnosis of cervical stenosis. This symptom is not common, though, as many women do not have a cervix narrow enough to prevent menstruation altogether. Post-menopausal women may not notice any changes at all.

Cervical stenosis can sometimes cause women to stop menstruating.
Cervical stenosis can sometimes cause women to stop menstruating.

When cervical stenosis symptoms are present, they are often related to another underlying condition. Illnesses like cervical cancer can cause stenosis as well as like stomach pain and fatigue. This is the rarest cause of stenosis, which sometimes happens as a result of treatment rather than the illness itself. For instance, radiation treatment for cancer can sometimes cause stenosis of the cervix.

Post-menopausal women with cervical stenosis will likely not experience any symptoms.
Post-menopausal women with cervical stenosis will likely not experience any symptoms.

Diagnosing stenosis involves attempting to insert a probe into the cervix. This can show doctors how narrow the cervical opening has become. If no other conditions have been noticed by that time, the doctor may run a pap test to rule out cervical cancer as a possible cause. Treatment will depend on the severity of symptoms.

Asymptomatic stenosis is rarely treated unless it is caused by cancer. When treatment for cervical stenosis symptoms is performed, it generally involves using a device which dilates the cervix. Any underlying conditions should also be treated to prevent it from recurring.

Discussion Comments

Lodeseba

This is why regular gynecological exams are so important. I had quite a scare last year, and thanks to my regular check up we caught it in time. I tell all my friends to get their yearly exams just for this reason. Also, ladies if you have a concern don’t be afraid to ask your doctor!

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Though rare, one symptom of cervical stenosis is painful menstruation.
      By: gstockstudio
      Though rare, one symptom of cervical stenosis is painful menstruation.
    • Cervical stenosis can sometimes cause women to stop menstruating.
      By: kellyreekolibry
      Cervical stenosis can sometimes cause women to stop menstruating.
    • Post-menopausal women with cervical stenosis will likely not experience any symptoms.
      By: olezzo
      Post-menopausal women with cervical stenosis will likely not experience any symptoms.
    • The most common cause of cervical stenosis is wear and tear on the vertebrae.
      By: Photographee.eu
      The most common cause of cervical stenosis is wear and tear on the vertebrae.
    • As people age, their vertebrae can start compressing their spinal discs.
      By: CLIPAREA.com
      As people age, their vertebrae can start compressing their spinal discs.
    • Cervical stenosis causes a narrowing of the opening of the womb.
      By: isyste
      Cervical stenosis causes a narrowing of the opening of the womb.