Cervical dysplasia is a change in the tissue cells in the lowest part of the organ, called the cervix. First of all, it is important to know that Dysplasia does not only affect the uterus, For example, there is bone dysplasia, breast dysplasia, hip dysplasia, among others. Therefore, it is possible to have abnormal changes in the development of the cells, and each one has its own symptoms and particularities.

See also: Cervical cancer: what it is, diagnosis and treatment

Causes and symptoms of uterine dysplasia

According to Carolina Curci, MD, gynecologist and obstetrician, the causes of dysplasia are multifactorial. That is, there are several reasons that can affect the composition of the cells of the cervix tissue. Some of them:

• Smoking.
• Excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages.
• Sedentarism.
• Improper feeding.
• Stress.
• Hormonal changes.
• Viral infection, such as HPV .

Curci explains that The early stage of dysplasia is silent. "However, if there is no follow-up or diagnosis, advanced stages cause pain during sexual intercourse, cramps outside the menstrual period and frequent discharge with a strong odor", says the doctor. Untreated dysplasia can cause cervical cancer. Especially if the infection is by HPV, which evolves to cervical neoplasia and more severe lesions of the cervix, which increase the probability of cancer. In addition, the subtype of the virus and contamination by another type of HPV are relevant factors for the severity of the condition.

Can the condition cause infertility?

This is a very common doubt among women with cervical dysplasia. Curci explains that dysplasia is not able to cause infertility On the other hand, if the woman has to undergo a surgical intervention, in which the affected area is removed, it is possible to face a risky pregnancy, because the cervix becomes narrower due to the procedure", warns the doctor.

How to prevent and treat

To have assiduity in the routine examinations is an important step to diagnose probable problems related to dysplasia, since the disease starts in a discrete way (some cases present warts or sores on the cervix, or cervix). "It is very important to do the Pap smear and other exams to identify dysplasia. We also do the colposcopy For the treatment, there are several possibilities: laser therapy, electrocauterization, use of medication, and lifestyle changes bring good results and eliminate the focus of dysplasia", Curci adds.

The best way to prevent dysplasia is to lead a healthy life and avoid habits such as smoking and drinking too much alcohol. Since immunity plays an important role in dysplasia, eating healthily, controlling stress and taking care of your sex life are all part of prevention. After all, the HPV is sexually transmitted Therefore, using condoms during sex reduces the chances of dysplasia caused by the virus, and prevents other STIs. HPV vaccine as a form of prevention.

Source: Carolina Curci, gynecologist, obstetrician, and specialist in human reproduction; and Febrasgo.