What is Pelvic Inflammatory Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Introduction

Pelvic Inflammatory Disorder (PID) is severe disease that affects a woman’s reproductive organs. It is often caused by sexually transmitted germs spread through the vagina and into the fallopian tubes, uterus or the ovaries. If untreated, PID can lead to constant pain, infertility and problems in subsequent pregnancies. The following blog post will assist you to to understand all aspects of PID starting beginning with its causes and symptoms to the diagnosis treatment and prevention in depth.

What is Pelvic Inflammatory Disease?

Pelvic Inflammatory Disorder is the generic name for an infection or inflammation of the female’s reproductive tract. The uterus (womb) as well as the fallopian tubes (which contain eggs that are released from Ovaries) and Ovaries. In rare instances the pelvic organs can also be inflamed.

PID is usually a result of an untreated sexually transmitted illness (STI) usually caused by bacteria such as Chlamydia Trachomatis as well as Neisseria Gonorrhoeae. When these bacteria are introduced into in the reproductive tract, they could move upwards through the vagina and cervix which can cause inflammation and infection of the reproductive organs in the internal reproductive system.

Causes of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

The most common reason for PID is an infection caused by bacteria, which is typically caused by sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Yet, PID can also occur because of other, non-sexually transmitted diseases. Let’s look at the main reasons:

1. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) :- Chlamydia as well as the gonorrhea is the two most frequently encountered STIs that can cause PID. The infections are usually not recognized since they are often not asymptomatic for women.

2. Bacterial Vaginosis :- An increase in the number of bacteria in vagina could result in an imbalance, which increases the chance of developing PID.

3. After Childbirth, Miscarriage, or Abortion :- Infections occurring during or after these events may lead to the reproductive organs of the upper part of the body.

4. Insertion of Intrauterine Devices (IUDs) :- Although it is not common, the insemination of an IUD can result in the spread of bacteria if it is not done in strict conditions of sterility.

5. Douching :- Douching regularly can alter the vaginal balance bacteria and can push harmful bacteria upwards.

Symptoms of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

The symptoms of PID can range from mild to extreme, and in some instances there might not be obvious symptoms. The most frequent symptoms include:

1. Pelvic or Lower Abdominal Pain :- This is the most frequent sign. It can be sharp or dull, and can last for a long time.

2. Unusual Vaginal Discharge :- Sometimes, with a foul odor the discharge can appear green or yellow.

3. Pain During Intercourse :- Also known as dyspareunia, it may be caused by inflamed tissues.

4. Painful or Difficult Urination :- This happens when the urinary tract is affected.

5. Irregular Menstrual Bleeding :- Women suffering from PID might experience more, longer, or more painful periods.

6. Fever and Chills :- A more severe illness that could require urgent medical treatment.

7. Nausea or Vomiting :- It can be more severe or advanced levels.

It’s important to know that some women, particularly in the early stages, may suffer no symptoms in any way and that’s why regular STI screening crucial.

Diagnosis of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

The process of diagnosing PID can be difficult. There’s no one test that can be used to diagnose PID and so doctors usually utilize a mix of tests which include:

1. Medical History and Physical Exam :- The doctor will inquire about the history of sexual activity symptoms and conduct an examination of the pelvis to look for tenderness.

2. Swab Tests :- The samples are collected from the vagina or cervix to look for STIs or infections caused by bacteria.

3. Urine Tests :- To confirm Urinary tract infections (UTIs) or to confirm the presence of a bacterium.

4. Blood Tests :- These tests help to detect symptoms of inflammation or infection like a high white blood cell count or an increase in CRP.

5. Ultrasound :- An ultrasound of the pelvis helps to visualize reproductive organs and also check for abnormalities or abscesses.

6. Laparoscopy :- In severe or uncertain cases the surgical camera can be inserted into the abdomen in order to see internal organs and verify PID.

The early detection of pelvic cancer is crucial to be able to avoid problems such as infertility and chronic pelvic pain.

Treatment of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

The objective of treatment is eliminating the infection and avoid complications. The treatment usually consists of:

1. Antibiotics :- A mixture of antibiotics is recommended to treat the potential bacteria. The treatment usually begins immediately even before the results of tests are available. It’s essential to take the entire course even if symptoms improve quickly.

2. Hospitalization :- If there are severe cases or the woman is pregnant could require IV antibiotics in an hospital.

3. Surgical Intervention :- In the event of an abscess, or there is no improvement after antibiotics, surgery or laparoscopy could be necessary.

4. Treating Sexual Partners :- Sexual partners need to be treated to avoid re-infection.

5. Temporary Abstinence :- Refraining from sexual contact during treatment aids in heal and helps prevent the spread of infection.

Conclusion

Pelvic Inflammatory The disease of the pelvic lining is major health issue which should not be overlooked. Early detection, appropriate treatment and preventive measures could make a huge differences in the outcome. Women should take advantage of routine screenings for sexual health, engage in safe sex and seek medical attention when they experience any unusual pelvic issues. If they are aware and take the proper treatment, PID can be effectively treated and its complications can be avoided.