Mucopurulent cervicitis (MPC) facts

What is MPC

MPC is an infection or inflammation of the cervix. It may or may not be due to a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

What causes MPC

• If your clinician diagnoses MPC, you will be tested for chlamydia, trichomonas, mycoplasma and gonorrhea. MPC also may be caused by other organisms for which your clinician may provide treatment.
• Some people diagnosed with MPC do not actually have an infection, but show signs and/or symptoms that may look like one.

Symptoms of MPC

Some people may notice unusual vaginal discharge, bleeding in between periods or bleeding after sex.

How to treat MPC

• Your clinician may offer you treatment for chlamydia and/or gonorrhea before your test results come back.
• Your sex partner(s) should have an STI check-up and may also need treatment.

How serious is MPC

MPC can be serious if it is caused by gonorrhea, chlamydia or mycoplasma. These infections can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), a serious infection that can damage the fallopian tubes and make someone more likely to have a “tubal pregnancy” (outside the uterus) which can be fatal. PID may even permanently affect a person’s ability to get pregnant.

How to avoid getting MPC

• Condoms are effective in reducing the risk of infection.
• Do not have sex if you or a sexual partner has symptoms of an STI, including discharge, burning with urination, rash, or genital sores.

This information is provided by San Francisco City Clinic.

Visit our homepage at sf.gov/cityclinic.

Information last revised January 2024