What is Pelvic Inflammatory Disease?

It is estimated that 100,000 woman in the United States become infertile every year due to a condition known as Pelvic Inflammatory Disease. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is a result of severe complications from sexually transmitted diseases that affect the reproductive organs in women. Most often, this condition results in permanent damage to the ovaries, uterus, and fallopian tubes; however, all female reproductive organs can be affected. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease often results in irreversible infertility.

How Does Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Occur?

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease affects the cervix, leading to many uncomfortable symptoms. The cervix is a vital component in the female reproductive system that assists the body by not allowing bacteria that is present in the vagina to transfer to the internal reproductive organs.

If the cervix becomes exposed to sexually transmitted diseases, it becomes infected and ceases to function properly. This often allows bacteria to enter the internal reproductive organs. If the sexually transmitted disease that was responsible for altering the cervix's functions is left untreated, most often pelvic inflammatory disease will occur, as well as permanent damage to the reproductive organs.

What are the Symptoms of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease?

While symptoms of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease can be unique from case to case, there are symptoms that are most often associated with the condition. These symptoms include a pain or tenderness in the lower abdomen and stomach. This pain can often occur in the upper right abdomen area as well. There is often an unusual discharge coming from the vagina that can range in color from yellow to green. It also produces an unusual odor.

Menstrual cycles are known to become irregular and more painful if Pelvic Inflammatory Disease is present. It is likely that women with this disease experience spotting and cramping through out the entire month. Sexual intercourse is likely to become painful as well. Other symptoms of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease include nausea and vomiting. It is common for fever and chills to occur as well.

How is Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Diagnosed?

In order for Pelvic Inflammatory Disease to be properly diagnosed a doctor will perform an evaluation. The patient's medical history will be examined, as well as the pelvic area. A physical examination and laboratory testing are conducted to rule out other possible conditions. Often, ultrasounds and blood tests are conducted. In other cases, a biopsy or laparoscopy may be preformed to diagnose the condition.

What is the Treatment for Pelvic Inflammatory Disease?

After being properly diagnosed, treatment for Pelvic Inflammatory Disease can begin. Treatment for this condition involves the use of antibiotics. In most cases, oral antibiotics will be given but in severe cases, they may be administered through an IV.

In severe Pelvic Inflammatory Disease cases, surgery may be needed. Surgery is needed when the area develops abscesses. These abscesses need to be removed to prevent them from rupturing and spreading the infection. In very severe cases, a hysterectomy may be needed to remove the female reproductive organs.

If you suspect you have Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, it is vital to seek medical treatment immediately. If left untreated the condition can intensify and the infection can spread, resulting in a greater level of damage to the area. To prevent this condition from occurring, it is important to practice safe sex methods to reduce the chance of contracting a sexually transmitted disease.

References:

"Your Guide to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, PID" WebMd.com

"Pelvic Inflammatory Disease" Mayoclinic.com

"Pelvic Inflammatory Disease" CDC.gov