What is PID?
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of the female reproductive organs. It is a complication of sexually transmitted diseases (e.g. chlamydia, gonorrhea). Other non-sexually transmitted infections can also cause PID.
Risk Factors:
- Having a sexually transmitted infection that is not well treated;
- Having a history of PID;
- Using vaginal douches;
- Using an IUD as a birth control method. The risk of a PID is highest three weeks after IUD insertion.
Symptoms and Diagnosis:
Diagnosis is based on a physical examination, medical history, and the following symptoms:
- Lower abdominal pain;
- Fever and chills;
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge;
- Nausea and vomiting;
- Lower back pain;
- Pain or bleeding during intercourse;
- Burning sensation when urinating;
- Bleeding between periods.
Complications:
- Fibrosis inside and outside the fallopian tubes can lead to their blockage
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Chronic pelvic and abdominal pain
- Infertility
Treatment:
The longer you wait to receive treatment, the greater the chances of complications from PID are. If you are diagnosed with PID, you must seek proper treatment immediately. The husband must also undergo tests and examinations to ensure that he does not have any STDs. If he was proven to have an STD, he must get it treated. Moreover, the couple must avoid intercourse until they have received their full treatment.
Your doctor will prescribe two or more types of antibiotics, an antipyretic, and a painkiller. While you’re taking antibiotics, your symptoms may disappear before the infection is fully cured. So even if that happens, do not stop taking the medications.
Prevention:
- Undergoing an annual examination for chlamydia infection is necessary if you are a woman of childbearing age under 25.
- Avoid random use of vaginal washes without consulting a specialist.