Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
PID is an umbrella term for any inflammation of the organs in the pelvis and it is normally caused by an infection in any of the reproductive organs, including the womb, ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix, womb lining and/or vagina (Chlamydia).
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) has emerged as a major cause of infertility of women of childbearing age.
(1) Causes
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease is usually contracted through sexual contact.
Untreated Gonorrhea and Chlamydia cause an estimated 90 percent of all cases of PID. However, it's sometimes caused by abortion, childbirth, or a pelvic procedure.
(2) Symptoms
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• breakthrough bleeding between periods
• foul smelling vaginal discharge
• pain in the lower abdomen
• back pain
• fever |
• a need to pass urine more frequently
• pain when urinating
• pain on intercourse
• rapid pulse
• chills |
PID is a serious condition and requires immediate medical attention. If you are experiencing pelvic pain or any of these symptoms you should see your gynecologist immediately.
(3) Treatment
If PID is found and it hasn't progressed to a stage severe enough to require major reconstructive surgery to repair the fallopian tubes, antibiotic therapy may be tried.
(4) Prevention
Douching significantly increases your risk of developing Pelvic Inflammatory Disease and other pelvic infections and is not recommended. Douching removes the natural, protective mucous from the cervix, giving bacteria a more receptive place to grow.
The best protection against PID and other sexual transmitted diseases (STD) is to always use a condom, unless you are in a long-term monogamous relationship and both of you have been tested for HIV and other STDs.
