What should you know about strawberry cervix not trichomoniasis?

A strawberry cervix is a red, speckled appearance of the cervix that can occur with trichomoniasis but does not confirm the infection. Similar inflammation can have other causes, so a clinician uses symptoms, an examination, and testing to identify what is happening.

The cervix is the lower part of the uterus, at the top of the vagina. Inflammation can make its surface look unusually red or dotted, which is why clinicians use the descriptive term strawberry cervix. Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite and may occur with frothy or increased discharge, itching, burning, unpleasant odour, or discomfort when passing urine. Some people have few symptoms. The appearance alone cannot establish the diagnosis or show whether another infection is present.

Arrange a sexual-health or gynaecology assessment if this finding was seen or if you have new discharge, irritation, or discomfort. Testing may involve a vaginal or cervical sample and questions about symptoms and recent sexual exposure. Avoid douching and do not start someone else’s medicine. If trichomoniasis is confirmed, take the prescribed treatment as directed and follow advice about sexual contact and partner testing or treatment so reinfection can be addressed.

Seek prompt care for pelvic pain, fever, pain during sex, bleeding after sex, pregnancy, or worsening discharge. Urgent help is needed for severe pain, faintness, heavy bleeding, or feeling very unwell. You can read about related symptoms such as [Vaginal Discharge](/symptoms/vaginal-discharge/) and [Vaginal Itching](/symptoms/vaginal-itching/). Treatment depends on the diagnosis; pelvic infection treatment may involve [Antibiotic Treatment for Pelvic Infection](/treatments/medical-gynaecology/antibiotic-treatment-for-pelvic-infection/).

What did you see on examination? Which tests are needed? Could another infection or irritation explain the appearance? Should my partner be tested or treated? When is it safe to resume sex, and do I need a follow-up test?