This is a common ailment in women of childbearing age. It manifests as a reddish sore on the cervix or neck of the womb, beside the cervical opening, which results from hormonal changes during or after pregnancy, or taking the Pill. It can also be caused by using an IUD or the friction of intercourse. Symptoms include white discharge with an unpleasant odour, and sometimes a bloody discharge. A cervical smear test (Pap smear) will confirm diagnosis.

Treatment - Herbal.

Golden seal infusion used as a douche: add a cup of boiling water to 1 teaspoon of the herb, infuse for 15 minutes, strain and allow to cool. Use in a sterile douche daily for 3 or 4 weeks. (Golden seal stains, so take care of clothing).

Hydrotherapy

Hot and cold sitz baths can be used to stimulate blood circulation to the cervix and encourage healing. Use a bath and a tub or large bowl of water, fill one with hot water. Spend 30 seconds in the hot, then 3 seconds in the cold. Repeat 3 times, finishing with the cold. Ensure you wrap up well afterwards. Carry out this treatment every other day.

Orthodox

In cases producing severe symptoms, heat or freezing treatments are used to cauterize the area of erosion.