What is cervical stenosis?

Cervical stenosis is the narrowing of the passageway through the cervix. They usually do not cause any obvious symptoms. It can be congenital (a birth defect) or acquired due to another condition, such as menopause, cervical cancer, previous cervical surgeries or radiation therapies. Though accumulation of menstrual blood (in those still menstruating) and pus (in the presence of an infection) can occur, they are rare. 

Those who have the condition before attaining puberty will find themselves with various menstrual abnormalities such as delayed menses, painful periods or even abnormal bleeding. An accumulation of menses may cause pain in the lower abdominal area and a lump can be felt in the pelvic area. Meanwhile, those with undiagnosed cervical stenosis may experience infertility as sperm cells are unable to travel up to the fallopian tube through the passageway to fertilise the eggs.

Diagnosis is based on the doctor’s evaluation and some tests to rule out cancer. This condition, however, is confirmed by the doctor passing a probe through the cervix into the uterus, in addition to routine imaging such as an ultrasound. 

Cervical stenosis is treated by widening the cervix only if you have symptoms such as collections of menstrual blood and/or pus. Cervix is dilated by using specialised tools and stents which are commonly done under sterile conditions.