In a world where we often focus on visible ailments, Pelvic Inflammatory Disease PID remains an elusive intruder, lurking in the shadows, yet capable of causing profound distress and long-term consequences.
Imagine that a bacterial infection enters the cervix and slowly moves up the body to the uterus, fallopian tubes, and beyond. Thereafter, an inflammatory storm develops inside the pelvis, which could have disastrous repercussions.
What draws our attention to this captivating illness, though? Well, PID is more than just a common illness, it is complex and puzzling for it has the potential to permanently harm a woman’s reproductive health, fertility, and general well-being.
Table of Contents
What is Pelvic Inflammatory Disease?
A significant infection in your uterus, fallopian tubes, and/or ovaries is called pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Women and those who were (assigned females at birth are affected by this. When specific germs pass from your vagina to your reproductive organs, PID can develop.
The most frequent cause of PID is bacteria from untreated STIs (sexually transmitted diseases). PID can also be brought on by the usual vaginal bacteria.
If you have PID, you can experience pain in your pelvic or lower abdomen. Additionally, you can also experience unexpected vaginal discharge or leakage.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease that is severe might permanently harm your reproductive organs and make it impossible for you to become pregnant. The best method to avoid PID is to get tested for STIs and receive treatment for them.
What are the common signs of PID?
Common signs and symptoms of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) may vary from person to person, and some individuals may experience mild or no symptoms at all. However, it is crucial to be aware of the following potential indicators:
- Pain in the Lower Abdomen
- Irregular or painful menstruation
- Abnormal color discharge
- Brning in the pee
- Pain while intercourse
- Fever and constant fatigue
- Tenderness or painful examinations
Dr. Rabbia Ashraf who is one of the top gynecologists in Pakistan says that it’s important to note that these signs and symptoms can also be indicative of other gynecological conditions. If you experience any of these symptoms or suspect you may have PID, it is crucial to seek prompt medical attention from a healthcare professional.
Suggested Read: Pelvic Floor Health During Pregnancy
Where does PID feel like?
Inflamed vulvar tissue typically, and lower abdominal or pelvic pain is noticed when you have PID. It could hurt softly and sharply or dually. During intercourse, you might also experience pain deep in your pelvis.
What Causes Pelvic Inflammatory Disease?
There are several factors that increase the risk of developing PID. These include:
Untreated STIs – STIs that have not been appropriately or not at all treated considerably enhance the risk of getting PID. STIs should be identified and treated as away to help stop the development of PID.
Early Sexual Activity – Initiating sexual activity at a young age, particularly before the age of 25, increases the risk of PID. The cervix of younger individuals is more susceptible to infections.
Several Sexual Partners – Having a partner who has several partners or engaging in sexual activity with multiple partners both increases the chance of contracting PID and being exposed to STIs.
Intrauterine Device (IUD) installation – Although uncommon, the risk of PID is slightly elevated in the initial weeks following IUD installation. By using the right insertion techniques and practicing good vaginal hygiene, this danger can be reduced.
PID in the past: Having PID in the past raises your risk of experiencing recurrent episodes of the ailment. In order to avoid additional difficulties, proper medical care must be administered after therapy.
Besides sexual activity, other factors that can contribute to the development of PID include recent childbirth, miscarriage, or abortion, as well as certain gynecological procedures.
Is PID Contagious?
Yes, PID is a very contagious disease that is often spread through direct sexual contact.
How is PID Diagnosed?
Experts at Doctors Hospital say that usually PID is diagnosed by your doctor through:
- Performing a pelvic exam on the reproductive organs to check the presence of an abscess or tenderness
- Taking medical history, including sexual activity, general health, and other symptoms
- A vaginal culture to check for specific bacteria in your vaginal discharge.
What is the Treatment for Pelvic Inflammatory Disease?
The bacterial infection causing the inflammation is often targeted and treated with a mix of antibiotics in the treatment of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). Here are some of the treatment options:
Antibiotic Therapy
The infection can be treated with an antibiotic course. Antibiotic combinations are frequently used to treat a wide range of microorganisms that may be the cause of PID.
Antibiotics like doxycycline, ceftriaxone, metronidazole, or azithromycin are frequently recommended.
Taking the whole course of antibiotics as directed is essential, even if symptoms get better or go away.
Pain Management
To ease the pelvic pain and discomfort brought on by PID, over-the-counter pain medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen may be suggested.
If necessary, your doctor may also recommend stronger painkillers.
Sexual Partner Treatment
If the underlying cause of PID is a sexually transmitted infection (STI), it is important for sexual partners to be evaluated and treated as well. This helps prevent reinfection and further spread of the infection.
Suggested Read: Learn about ‘The Silent STI’ Genital Herpes; Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
Refraining Sexual Activity
To stop the infection from spreading and to give the body time to heal, it is advised to refrain from sexual activity during the course of treatment. When it is safe to resume sexual activity, your healthcare expert will provide you with advice.
Follow-Up Care
Follow-up appointments are important to monitor the response to treatment, assess any complications, and ensure complete recovery. If symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment, further evaluation may be necessary.
When to Visit a Gynecologist
In conclusion, Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is a complex and possibly serious condition that needs to be addressed and quick medical attention. If left untreated, this silent invader can cause pain, discomfort, and even long-term consequences to a woman’s reproductive health. To ensure an early discovery, appropriate treatment, and the avoidance of additional complications make sure to book an appointment with the best lady doctors in Lahore through contacting Healthwire.
