PID

What causes PID?

Pelvic inflammatory disease develops when microorganisms, like bacteria infect your internal female reproductive organs. Normally your Cervix (the lower part of the Uterus extending into the vagina) acts as a barrier to prevent the entry of disease-causing microorganisms into the internal reproductive organs. During certain disease conditions, the Cervix gets infected facilitating the entry of microorganisms to the other parts.

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Although you can get PID through several ways, the most common cause is having sex with a person infected with Chlamydia and Gonorrhea infection. During sexual contact, the bacteria move upwards from your Vagina and Cervix infecting your uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes. When the Cervix is left opened, e.g., during menstruation, bacteria have a greater chance to get through the Cervix and infect the other internal parts. The following are the other risk factors for PID:

• women with multiple sex partners indulging in unprotected sexual habits,
• intrauterine device (IUD) insertion,
• abortion,
• miscarriage,
• childbirth,
• douching,
• several surgical procedures and
• women with prior episode of PID.

Symptoms of PID

Symptoms of PID can vary from person to person. Sometimes the symptoms are so mild that you might not notice it. However, most women experience pelvic pain or lower abdominal pain while other symptoms may include:

• fever,
• unusual vaginal discharge,
• irregular periods,
• painful sexual intercourse,
• nausea or vomiting and
• increased period pain.

Diagnosis

Since symptoms may vary from person to person, there are no specific tests for PID as such and it is often difficult to diagnose. Physicians diagnose PID by taking samples from the Cervix to look for Gonorrhea and chlamydial infection. Physical examination, blood tests, pelvic ultrasound, Laparoscopy (a type of surgical procedure in which a small incision is made, usually in the navel, through which a viewing tube (laparoscope) is inserted) can also be done.

Preventing PID

PID can be prevented. The important preventive measures include:

• Avoid having sex with a person whom suspect may be infected with STD.
• Use of condoms (male and female) to practice safe sex.
• Early treatment of STD can prevent development of PID.
• Regular screening for STD if you have multiple sex partners.
• Avoid having sex when you are on medication for PID.

Treating PID

Pelvic inflammatory disease can be cured. However early treatment is recommended to prevent any long-term complications like infertility and Ectopic Pregnancy. Your doctor will prescribe the right medication most suitable to your present health condition. You will feel better after two or three days once the medication starts, but it is a must to take all the medicines prescribed. Follow-up visits with your doctor should not be neglected. If you are diagnosed with PID, your sexual partner should also be treated to prevent any incidence of reinfection.