Introduction:
A bruised cervix usually occurs due to violent sexual activities, which include inserting a fist, penis, or any other object into the vagina. Bruising can be caused by hitting the cervix during intercourse, which makes it feel sensitive and tender. It typically occurs with deep penetrations; that is, the risk of bruised cervix increases with certain sexual positions like the doggy style position. As the cervix is placed above the vaginal canal, it is rare that the cervix gets bruised from anything other than sexual activity.
In case if there is pain during sexual intercourse, it can be an indication of any other issue as sex should be pleasurable and not painful. Sometimes, the cervix becomes bruised during a sexual assault or trauma. Bruising occurs particularly due to a violent attack. If you have experienced a sexual assault, consult a doctor because the cervix is a protective barrier for the uterus, and it monitors what enters or exits the vagina. Basically, the cervix separates the vagina from the uterus.
What Are the Symptoms of a Bruised Cervix?
The symptoms of a bruised cervix depend on how badly you have been injured. It also depends on the person's pain tolerance. The bruised cervix feels like being poked on the inside with a hot poker, and women can also experience cramping and abdominal pain that is worse than the worst period pain ever experienced. The painful cramps lead to nausea, sweating, and vomiting. Everyone will not have much pain, but there can be a general aching sensation deep inside the body and may occur at the time or after penetration.
Some other bruised cervix symptoms are also noticed by women, along with the most obvious sign, the pain. They are symptoms of spotting, bleeding, nausea, and back pain. These symptoms are more common when the sexual intercourse is more aggressive. Any long-lasting extreme symptoms, such as excessive blood, can indicate that something else is wrong.
Who Is More Likely to Experience a Bruised Cervix?
Some women with a shallow vagina or a condition called cervical ectropion may more likely experience cervical bruising. The uterus position and vaginal structure vary from person to person, and the distance between the cervix and the vaginal opening may range from 3 to 7 inches when unaroused. When aroused, the upper 2/3rd of the vagina starts to stretch to allow easier penetration. Actually, the uterus and the cervix are lifted out of the way when the vagina stretches.
When the cervix and vaginal opening are close together, or if there is no adequate arousal, penetration can easily bruise and bump the cervix. Also, the cervix can change its position during the monthly cycle. It may tilt in one direction a week before and after the period.
The small hole in the cervix, known as the os, is plugged with mucus on most days of the month, and this mucus prevents the sperms from entering the uterus. At the time of ovulation, the cervix tilts downward, softens, and opens slightly for the sperm to enter. During this time, women may more likely experience cervical bruising.
How Long Does a Bruised Cervix Take To Heal?
As with other bruises and bumps, healing time varies from person to person. The pain likely starts to taper off within a couple of days. The symptoms will be completely resolved within seven days. Apart from the temporary discomforts, there are no other associated complications with a bruised cervix.
But avoid penetrative sex and masturbation until the symptoms disappear. This is because having sex with symptoms can increase pain and discomfort, exacerbate the injury, and prolong the healing time.
How Is a Bruised Cervix Diagnosed?
Visit a gynecologist or other healthcare provider if the symptoms last for more than one week or if there is constant pain during intercourse. A pelvic examination will be performed to assess the symptoms and determine whether there is an infection or any other underlying condition. The gynecologist may also advise on any of the following next steps. Seek immediate medical attention when:
- There is severe pain.
- There are larger clots or quarter-sized clots in the period blood.
- The pad or tampon gets soaked every hour.
How Is a Bruised Cervix Treated?
Usually, a bruised cervix does not need clinical treatment, and it should heal on its own within three days. However, when this happens frequently, make sure to consult with a gynecologist. The cervix is sensitive and may be more susceptible to bruising because of any underlying infection. In addition, spotting after intercourse could be a sign of friable cervix or cervical irritation.
The pain and discomfort can be calmed by taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as Naproxen (Aleve) or Ibuprofen (Advil). Menstrual pain relievers such as Midol are also helpful. To relieve the pain, you can try to:
- Sit on the pillow or get a cushioning effect until vaginal tenderness subsides.
- Apply a hot bottle or heating pad to the back or abdomen to ease cramping.
- Massage the back and abdomen to help relieve tension and use a clary or lavender sage oil for added relief.
- Wear loose clothes to alleviate pressure on the stomach and prevent further discomfort.
How to Prevent Bruising in the Future?
The best ways to prevent cervical bruising are,
- Make sure that you are fully aroused before having penetration.
- When you are not fully aroused, try to spend at least 15 minutes or more on foreplay.
- If you want to enjoy some quality alone time, consider investing in a good vibrator as it helps to shoot sparks of pleasure all over the body.
- When you are going to have sex with the partner, begin to tease each other and start stimulating each other’s erogenous zones, like behind the ears, nipples, or neck.
- If you need vaginal penetration, whether with a toy, penis, or fingers, make sure you use plenty of lubrication because this helps to prevent friction and other irritations. With the assistance of a physician, individuals can make purchases of lubrication gels available online.
- Also, there are positions that help to control the depth, so it is better to stick to those positions where you can control the depth of penetration.
- Take controls while in traditionally submissive positions, such as doggy style. Tell your partner to watch for the cues or to remain still, as this allows you to move as little or as much as you are comfortable with.
