Cervix that bleeds easily on pelvic exam

[someone very scared]

I went to for my annual exam. My last pap smear was normal, all my cultures have been normal and have been tested for STDs and have been negative. I am on the ortha evra patch. I have been with the same guy( my first) for the past 2 years and we are both monagamous. I am only his second. I went for my annual this year to a different ob/gyn ,he said my cervix bleed eaily upon touch. This has never happened before, and i do not bleed after sex. He said it might cervical ectropion. But he did a pap smear and vaginal culture. I am very upset and worried? Should I be worried even though my last exam was completely normal. Why is my cervix bleeding upon touch? I have also had thin white vaginal discharge but my old ob/gyn said it was because of bacterial vaginosis and he gave me met, but all my cultures were normal and he did wet mount and found no clue cells or trichomonas and I took it,he said it might be just an overgrowth my vaginal flora? Could this be a reason? How is it possible everything was normal? I am awaiting for this pap smear and vaginal culture? Should I be worried?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

There can be several reasons for a friable (easily irritated) cervix.  This can include various causes of infection or inflammation.  Lupus, other immune disorders, chlamydia/gonorrhea/vaginosis, or dysplasia (precancer) should all be considered.

The bleeding can also come from the uterus.  A endometrial biopsy can be considered if the cervix tests remain negative.

These options should be discussed with your GYN.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_