What is the cervix? Let's find out exactly what it is!

Have you ever wondered about this small but very important part of your body, the cervix? You may have heard this name, either from a doctor or when talking about a Pap smear. In fact, many people do not have a great understanding of it. So today, let's talk about what this cervix is, what service it provides to our body, and how to keep it healthy in a simple way that you can understand.

What exactly is the cervix?

Simply put, your cervix is ​​a muscular, tunnel-like organ. It's located at the bottom of your uterus. It's like the neck of the womb . That's why it's sometimes called the "neck of the womb." The cervix is ​​where your uterus and vagina connect. It's the part of your body that allows fluids to move between the uterus and vagina, and it's the part of your body that helps your baby pass through the vagina (the birth canal) when you have a baby. However, the cervix is ​​also where cell changes that can lead to cancer are most common. That's why it's important to get regular Pap smears. This way, your doctor can find anything unusual or a sign of a disease early.

Who has a cervix?

Women have a cervix. Also, some intersex people can have a cervix.

What is the actual function of the cervix?

Your cervix is ​​like a gate. It allows fluids to enter and exit your uterus. It's also a very powerful gatekeeper. It can open and close to allow things like pregnancy and childbirth to happen. Just think about how important your cervix is:

• Menstruation : The menstrual blood that comes out every month as part of your menstrual cycle begins in the uterus and exits through the cervix into the vagina.
• Pregnancy : During sexual intercourse, when your partner ejaculates, the sperm travels from the vagina, through the cervix, into the uterus, and from there into the fallopian tubes , where it meets an egg.
• Fertility: Your cervical mucus affects how easily you can get pregnant. During ovulation (when your body releases an egg), your cervix releases mucus. This is thinner and less acidic than normal. This makes it easier for sperm to travel to the uterus. As a result, the sperm have a better chance of reaching the egg and fertilizing it.
• VaginalVaginal delivery : Your cervix controls the time it takes for your baby to come out of your uterus. During pregnancy, your cervix produces a mucus plug that covers the entrance to your uterus. When it's time for your baby to come in, this mucus plug dissolves, making your cervix soft and thin. The cervix then dilates (opens). This is when your baby can come out of your uterus . Your doctor can estimate how far along your cervix is ​​by measuring how much your baby is.
• Protecting the uterus: The cervix also stops things like tampons or diaphragms that you insert into the vagina from entering the uterus.

Where is the cervix located?

Your cervix is ​​a very important part of your reproductive system. It is located inside your pelvic cavity, about 3 to 6 inches inside your vagina. It starts at the bottom of your uterus and extends all the way to the top of your vagina. The area where the cervix protrudes from the top of your vagina is called the ectocervix. Your vagina, cervix, and uterus are located behind your bladder (the organ that helps you urinate) and urethra, and in front of your rectum and anus (the organs that help you defecate).

What does the cervix look like? What are its parts?

The word "cervix" comes from the Latin word for "neck." Like the neck, the cervix is ​​roughly shaped like a cylinder or tube. It connects two important parts of the body. Just as your neck connects your head to the rest of your body, the cervix connects your uterus to your vagina. The cervix is ​​slightly wider in the middle, but narrows toward the sides. The upper end opens into the uterus, and the lower end opens into the vagina. Your cervix is ​​made up of these parts:

• Internal OS: This is the entrance to the uterus. During pregnancy, doctors may talk about this ``Internal OS''.
• Endocervical canal: This is a tunnel-like part that runs from the ``Internal OS'' to the ``Ectocervix''.
• Ectocervix: This is the part of the cervix that protrudes into the upper part of the vagina.
• External OS: This is the opening to the vagina.

The area where the endocervical canal and the ectocervix meet is called the Transformation Zone (TZ) . This area, called the (TZ), is where the most cell changes occur in the cervix. It is also where abnormal cells are most likely to develop, such as cervical dysplasia or cervical cancer.

How big is the cervix?

The cervix is ​​usually about an inch long. However, the size of the cervix can vary from person to person. The cervix is ​​usually slightly larger in women who have had children. Also, the cervix is ​​larger in women of reproductive age than in those who have gone through menopause. During childbirth, the cervix shortens significantly to allow the baby to pass easily from the uterus into the vagina.

Can we touch the cervix?

Yes, you can do it depending on the time of your menstrual cycle. If you insert your longest finger into your vagina, after a short distance you will feel a barrier that prevents the finger from going any further. That is the cervix. It may feel hard, or it may feel like a soft sponge. The location and texture of the cervix will change depending on whether you are ovulating or not. It is at its softest and most difficult to touch during ovulation.

But remember, if you try to touch your cervix, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with mild soap and warm water. Otherwise, things like bacteria can get into your cervix and cause an infection.

What is the cervix made of?

Your cervix is ​​made up of strong fibromuscular tissue. Two main types of cells line the cervix:

• Glandular cells: These cells are located in the endocervical canal, the innermost part of the cervix.
• Squamous cells: These cells line the outermost part of the cervix, the 'ectocervix', and your vagina.

Cell changes often occur in the area where these two different cell types meet, called the ``(TZ)''. Your doctor will pay special attention to this area when testing for cervical cancer.

What are the common diseases that can occur related to the cervix?

Many of the most dangerous conditions affecting the cervix are associated with the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) . HPV is a sexually transmitted infection (STI). It can sometimes lead to cervical cancer. Here are some conditions that can affect the cervix:

• Cervical cancer: A cancerous growth of cells in the cervix. The main cause of this is HPV infection .
• Cervical dysplasia: This is an abnormal growth of cells. The main cause of this is HPV infection. It is sometimes called cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). Although cervical dysplasia does not always progress to cervical cancer, it can sometimes progress to cervical cancer.
• Cervicitis :Cervical inflammation. This can be caused by a sexually transmitted infection, a skin rash, or an allergy. Infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, and trichomoniasis can cause this. Cervical inflammation can also be caused by a reaction to birth control pills .
• Cervical polyps, fibroids, and cysts: These are harmless growths or fluid-filled cysts that form on the cervix. Nabothian cysts are the most common type of cervical cyst.
• Cervical ectropion: This is also a harmless condition. What happens here is that the glandular cells on the inside of the cervix begin to appear on the outside.
• Cervical problems during pregnancy:
• Cervical insufficiency: This is a complication that occurs during pregnancy. What happens here is that the cervix opens too early. This can lead to miscarriages and premature birth. This condition was previously called an ``incompetent cervix.''
• Placenta previa: This is when the placenta, which provides nourishment to the fetus, partially or completely covers the cervix. In such pregnancies, a cesarean section (c-section) is usually performed.
• Cervical pregnancy: This is a very rare pregnancy complication. This is when an egg implants in the endocervical canal instead of the uterine wall.

What are the common symptoms of cervical conditions?

Many cervical conditions have no visible symptoms. For example, cervical dysplasia and early cervical cancer may not have any noticeable symptoms. That's why it's important to have regular Pap smears to check for abnormal cell growth. However, if you do have symptoms, they may include:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding: Things like heavy menstrual bleeding or bleeding between periods.
• Vaginal discharge: A discharge that is watery or bloody , odorless or with an odor.
• Feeling tired , uncomfortable, or generally unwell.
• Pain when urinating.

How do I know if there is a problem with my cervix?

You may not know it. Most of the time, your doctor won't know you have a problem unless they find something unusual during a pelvic exam or Pap smear. Don't wait for symptoms to appear. Get tested regularly.

What are the common tests done to check the health of the cervix?

Regular pelvic exams and Pap smears are the most common ways to check your cervix. Your doctor may also order other tests depending on your condition. Some common tests include:

• Pelvic exam: The doctor will visually and manually (with his fingers) examine your cervix to check for any abnormalities.
• Pap smear: The doctor takes a sample of cells from your cervix and sends it to a lab to check for cancer or precancerous cells. The HPV test uses a similar procedure. It looks for signs of the HPV virus.
• Colposcopy: The doctor uses a special lighted microscope to look closely at the tissue on your cervix. If there is anything suspicious, a tissue sample may be taken and tested in a lab.
• Pelvic imaging: Your doctor may order an imaging test to get a better look at your cervix. Ultrasounds are the most common imaging method used to look at your cervix. However, magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs) and computed tomography (CT) scans may also be used.
• Biopsy: The doctor may take a sample of tissue from the cervix to check for signs of cancer. Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP), conization/cone biopsy, and endocervical curettage (ECC) are some of the biopsy techniques the doctor may use.

What are the common treatments for cervical diseases?

Cervicitis caused by bacteria can often be treated with antibiotics. Tests such as LEEP and cone biopsy, which are used to check for abnormal cells that could be signs of cancer, are actually treatments. They remove tissue that contains cancer cells. Depending on your condition, your doctor may use cryotherapy, heat, or electricity to destroy abnormal cells in your cervix. Cervical cancer treatments can include surgery, radiation treatment, chemotherapy, targeted drug therapy, and immunotherapy.

Simple lifestyle tips to keep your cervix healthy

Your cervix is ​​a small organ, but it has a big impact on your overall health, both during pregnancy and during labor. By following these tips, you can keep your cervix healthy.

• Get the HPV vaccine: The FDA has approved three vaccines that prevent the types of HPV that cause cervical cancer: Gardasil®, Gardasil 9®, and Cervarix®. Getting these vaccines can greatly reduce your risk of developing cervical cancer.
• Get screened regularly for HPV and cervical cancer: According to general guidelines, you should have your first Pap test at age 21 and then every three years through your twenties. You should have a Pap test and an HPV test every five years between the ages of 30 and 65. Talk to your doctor about how often you should get tested, depending on your health.
• Practice safer sex: Always use condoms or dental dams during sexual intercourse, anal sex, or oral sex. Don't share sex toys, and limit the number of sexual partners you have. Taking these steps can help reduce your risk of getting sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as HPV, which increases your risk of cervical cancer.
• Avoid tobacco products: Research has shown that if you smoke or use tobacco products, you are more likely to develop an HPV infection into cancer.

Take-Home Message

Your cervix is ​​a small organ that has a big impact on your health during pregnancy and throughout your life. Take good care of your cervix by getting the HPV vaccine and seeing your doctor regularly for Pap tests. Most of the time, your body won't show any signs or symptoms that indicate that you have abnormal growths on your cervix. Regular checkups can help your doctor catch any abnormalities early. So don't forget to take care of this.