In brief...
In girls and women only. An infection of the cervix, the neck of the womb, that is probably caused by unknown bacteria. It can cause a vaginal discharge and some cases are caught during unprotected sex. It is easy for us to detect and treat
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What is non-specific cervicitis and what causes it?
Non-specific cervicitis, NSC, is an inflammation of the cervix, which can be caused by a variety of infections. Fewer than half of girls or women who have cervicitis symptoms are found to be infected with Chlamydia, others have gonorrhoea and a few have Herpes Virus infection or other bacterial infections. More often than not no cause is found for the inflammation, which is then referred to as 'non-specific'.
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What are the symptoms?
NSC can cause a vaginal discharge which is actually from the cervix.
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Can it be caught during sex?
In some cases we think non-specific cervicitis can be caught during unprotected sex.
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What should I do before coming to a clinic for advice, tests and treatment?
Don't have unprotected sex, especially if you think you might have an infection.
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What tests can you offer me at SHAC?
At the clinic a doctor or nurse will talk with you, examine you and take some samples, so that we can test you for any infections that might be causing the problems.
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When can I expect to get results from the tests?
You will be given the results of some of the tests on the same day as your visit, and the results of other ones after one week.
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What treatment is available at SHAC?
Cervicitis can usually be cleared up very easily by taking antibiotic pills.
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What should I do after visiting the clinic?
Don't have unprotected sex. Your partner(s) will need to be tested and given the right treatment to prevent them re-infecting you or passing it on to other sexual partners.
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How can I prevent it happening again?
Don't have unprotected sex, especially if you think your partner has an infection. Learn to use safer sex.
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