Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
Pelvic inflammatory disease(PID) refers to inflammation of the uterus, fallopian tubes, and/or ovaries as it leads to scar formation with adhesions to nearby tissues and organs. Sometimes this condition can lead to infertility in women. PID is generally classified by affected organs, the stage of the infection, and the organism(s) causing it.
Signs and Symptoms
The symptoms of PID include:
- Vaginal discharge which is foul smelling, itchy profuse and persistant
- Lower abdominal pain
- Painful intercourse
- Irregular menstrual bleeding
- Fever
- Cervical motion tenderness
Causes of PID
The major causes of PID are:
- Repeated miscarriages
- Repeated abortions
- Giving birth in suboptimal conditions
- Gynecological operations
Treatment
As PID is difficult to diagnose and can cause serious health problems, it should be treated at the earliest. Your doctor would start your treatment when even he or she is not completely sure about PID.
- Treatment is given in form of anti-biotic and anti-inflammatory drugs for 14-21days. If condition doesn't improve, you may need to undergo further tests or treatment. You may be given injections of antibiotics.
- If your PID is very severe you will feel very ill and will need to go to hospital. If you have a pelvic abscess (a collection of infected fluid, or pus, in your lower abdomen), you may need an operation to drain the abscess and clear the affected area.
