What Is Pelvic Inflammatory Disease?
The pelvic inflammatory disease also called PID)is a complex infection of the reproductive organs. It’s caused by sexually transmitted bacteria like chlamydia and gonorrhea, which can lead to infertility — or even death.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1 million women in the United States are diagnosed with PID each year. The condition occurs when bacteria from another source enters the uterus (womb). It can cause inflammation of the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries — sometimes leading to serious complications.
PID is categorized into four types:
PID with tubo-ovarian abscess (TOA)
This type of PID occurs when a small piece of tissue from the fallopian tube or ovary becomes infected and forms a pocket of pus. The fluid buildup causes pressure in the pelvis that can be very painful. TOA may also lead to infertility if left untreated.
PID without TOA
In this form of PID, the infection is confined to the uterus but causes inflammation, leading to scarring and damage to other organs in the reproductive system.
- Chronic salpingitis
This type of PID has no visible symptoms but can lead to scarring and permanent damage to an affected fallopian tube and infertility.
- Asymptomatic salpingitis
This type is characterized by inflammation or scarring in a fallopian tube with no symptoms present.
What Causes Pelvic Inflammatory Disease?
1. Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
2. Unsafe sex practices, such as having sex without a condom or having sex with multiple partners
3. Pelvic surgery, especially hysterectomy, which removes your reproductive organs
4. Previous tubal ligation blocks the fallopian tubes and prevents sperm from reaching an egg.
Symptoms Associated With PID
The symptoms of PID are different for everyone, but they can include:
• Unusual discharge from your vagina
• Pain during intercourse or when you don’t have sex
• Abdominal pain or tenderness above the pubic bone
• Pain with urination (peeing) or bowel movements
How Is Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Diagnosed & Treated?
The doctor will perform a pelvic examination. During this exam, the doctor will feel tenderness in the abdomen and around the pelvic area. If you have pelvic inflammatory disease, you may also have severe pain during urination or intercourse.
Tests for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are sometimes done simultaneously as the pelvic exam. These include tests for chlamydia and gonorrhea. Tests will also be done to check your blood counts and ensure that you are not anemic or dehydrated due to infection or inflammation of your reproductive organs. Your doctor may also order blood tests to find out if there is an infection somewhere else in your body that could be causing PID symptoms.
If patients have mild or moderate PID, they will be given antibiotics but require surgery along with medication for severe cases.
How Does PID Impact Fertility?
PID is one of the most common causes of infertility. It’s an infection that affects the reproductive tract, including your fallopian tubes. PID can also cause chronic pelvic pain and scarring, making it difficult to get pregnant or carry a baby to term.
PID can also trigger complications during pregnancy, including premature birth and pre-eclampsia—a dangerous condition that causes high blood pressure and fluid retention.
If you have PID, you may experience painful periods, fever, or unusual discharge from your vagina. PID can also cause pain in your lower abdomen and pelvic area.
The good news is that PID is treatable with antibiotics. So if you experience symptoms like lower abdominal pain or fever, make sure to get infertility treatment in Chandigarh or any other city on time. Let your doctor know about such issues so they can help you get treated as soon as possible.
How To Prevent PID?
PID is a common infection among women of childbearing age. However, if you are sexually active, you can take steps to lower your risk of getting PID.
Here are some ways to protect yourself
- Use latex condoms every time you have sex.
- Avoid douching or using vaginal deodorants.
- Get a yearly gynecological exam with your provider.
- Know your partner’s sexual health status and history of ST
The Bottom Line-:
PID is a serious condition that can lead to infertility or chronic pelvic pain. It can be caused by an untreated sexually transmitted infection (STI), so it’s important to get tested and treated if you have symptoms. If this disorder interferes with your fertility, it becomes vital to get infertility treatment from a skilled professional.
