Caption

Cervical erosion. A speculum has been inserted into a patient's vagina and opened, widening the passage. The eroded part of the cervix (neck of the womb) is at lower left. It appears red and inflamed. Cervical erosion occurs when the normal surface cells of the cervix, squamous epithelium, are replaced by glandular mucous-secreting cells from the cervical canal. It can be caused by trauma, infection or chemicals. It may cause abnormal vaginal bleeding, but is symptomless in most cases. Treatment is of the underlying cause, although it may heal on its own.