Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Causes and Treatments

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr N Raga Reddy , Gynecologist

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PID is an infection affecting female reproductive organs, causing pelvic discomfort. Untreated, it can lead to ectopic pregnancy or chronic infection. Specific procedures like abortion can increase risk.

PID progresses from the cervix to the fallopian tubes. Often symptomless, it's common in sexually active women aged 20-29. Early detection and treatment are crucial in preventing long-term complications.

What are the Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Symptoms and Warning Signs?

Some women with pelvic inflammatory disease may not show any symptoms. Women who do have symptoms may experience the following:

• Pain in the upper abdomen
• Painful sex
• Fever
• Painful urination
• Pain in the lower abdomen (the most common symptom)
• Irregular bleeding
• Tiredness
• Increased or foul-smelling vaginal discharge

Mild to severe discomfort can be caused by pelvic inflammatory disease. Some women, however, have significant discomfort and symptoms, such as

• Vomiting
• Sharp pain in the abdomen
• High fever (higher than 101°F)
• Fainting

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What Are the Common Causes and Risk Factors of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease?

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is typically caused by a bacterial infection, most commonly transmitted through sexual activity.

Causes

The primary bacteria responsible for PID are Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which are sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

However, other bacteria can also cause PID, often when the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted, allowing harmful bacteria to flourish.

Risk factors for PID include

Those who have had gonorrhoea, chlamydia, or an STI, are more likely to develop pelvic inflammatory disease. However, PID can develop in the absence of an STI as well. Other factors that may increase the risk of PID include:

• Having sex when before the age of 25
• Having multiple sexual partners
• Having intercourse without the use of a condom
• Douching
• Recently having an intrauterine device (IUD) inserted
• Having a history of pelvic inflammatory disease
• Unprotected sex with a partner who has an STI.
• Not seeking early treatment for STIs.
• Frequent use of vaginal hygiene products.
• Having a weakened immune system (e.g., HIV or diabetes).
• Post-abortion or post-surgery infections.

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How Pelvic Inflammatory Disease is Diagnosed?

After examining the patient's medical history, as well as conducting a physical and pelvic examination, doctors decide on the best suited course of action. Other tests that may be performed are:

• A microscopic examination of vaginal and cervix samples
• Blood tests
• Pap test: For this test, cells from the cervix are removed and examined under a microscope. It can detect cancer, infection, or inflammation.
• Ultrasound: This test creates a picture of the organs using high-frequency sound waves.
• Laparoscopy: A small procedure performed with a laparoscope. It is a narrow tube with a lens and a light which is used to observe the reproductive tract through an incision in the abdomen wall.
• Culdocentesis: A needle is inserted into the pelvic cavity via the vaginal wall to get a sample of the pus.

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What Are the Treatment Options for Pelvic Inflammatory Disease?

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is treatable, especially when detected early.

Main Treatment

• Antibiotics are commonly prescribed and usually effective.
• It's crucial to complete the full course, even if symptoms improve.
• Stopping medication early may cause symptoms to return or worsen.

Follow-Up Care

• Your doctor may schedule a follow-up visit a few days after starting treatment to check progress.
• Prompt treatment helps prevent long-term damage and complications.

When Hospitalization Is Needed

• Severe PID
• Pregnancy
• Age under 18
• Diagnosis of HIV

In these cases, close medical supervision may be necessary.

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When to See a Doctor?

Consult your doctor or seek emergency medical attention if you have any of the following symptoms:

• Foul smelling vaginal discharge
• Severe pain in the lower abdomen
• Fever, with a temperature higher than 101°; F (38.3° C)
• Nausea and vomiting, with an inability to keep anything down

At Medicover, our team of Gynaecologists can help you deal with Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) and its prevention.

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What Is the Recovery Process After Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Treatment?

Recovering from Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) involves more than just completing a course of antibiotics. A proper recovery plan, follow-up care, and support are essential for full healing and preventing complications. Here's what patients can expect after treatment:

Follow-Up Schedules

• Initial Follow-Up: A follow-up visit is typically recommended within 48 to 72 hours after starting treatment to ensure symptoms are improving.
• Additional Appointments: Depending on severity, further follow-ups may be scheduled after 1-2 weeks and again in 3 months to monitor reproductive health and ensure the infection has fully resolved.
• Screening for STIs: Regular screening for sexually transmitted infections (especially chlamydia and gonorrhea) is advised to prevent reinfection.

Lifestyle and Diet Recommendations

• Rest and Hydration: Adequate rest and staying hydrated support your body's healing process.
• Avoid Intercourse: Refrain from sexual activity until your doctor confirms the infection is completely cleared to prevent spreading or worsening the condition.
• Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E, zinc, and antioxidants can support immune function and tissue repair.
• Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers (as advised by your doctor) can help manage lingering pelvic discomfort.

Long-Term Outlook

• Fertility Concerns: Early treatment improves the chances of a full recovery. However, delayed or repeated PID can increase the risk of infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and chronic pelvic pain.
• Ongoing Monitoring: For those with a history of PID, routine gynecological exams and prompt attention to new symptoms are important for long-term health.

Medicover's Support Services

At Medicover, we are committed to supporting you through every step of your recovery:

• 24/7 medical consultation and support.
• Personalized follow-up plans tailored to your condition.
• Counseling services for emotional well-being and sexual health education.
• Reproductive health specialists to address concerns about fertility and future planning.

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What Precautions Can Help Prevent Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)?

Prevention

• Reducing the number of sexual partners, and knowing their sexual history.
• Using a condom, before engaging in sexual activities.
• Testing oneself for STI's and HIV as having other STI's or HIV increases the chances of contracting PID.
• Avoiding douching can help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the vagina, reducing the risk of infections.
• Seek prompt treatment if diagnosed with an STI to prevent complications.
• Engage in protected sex, especially with partners who may have a history of STIs.
• Schedule regular gynecological checkups to monitor reproductive health.

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Complications of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

If left untreated, PID can lead to serious health risks

• Infertility: Difficulty conceiving due to damage to reproductive organs
• Ectopic Pregnancy: When a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus
• Chronic Pelvic Pain: Persistent lower abdominal pain from inflammation
• Spread of Infection: PID can reach other organs and, in rare cases, become life-threatening if it enters the bloodstream

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Care at Medicover Hospitals

• At Medicover, we understand how challenging Pelvic Inflammatory Disease can be.
• Our dedicated team of gynecologists and infectious disease specialists work closely together to provide complete, compassionate care.
• We use the latest diagnostic tools and advanced treatments to offer personalized care tailored to you.
• Our holistic approach supports your healing journey and helps you achieve lasting recovery.
• Your reproductive health and well-being are our top priorities.
• You can trust us to provide expert care every step of the way.

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Our Experience Treating Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

At Medicover Hospitals, we understand the physical and emotional toll Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) can have on women. That's why we approach every case with empathy, expertise, and respect. Our team of specialists offers timely diagnosis, tailored treatment plans, and supportive care at every step, because your comfort, health, and peace of mind matter most to us.

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