PID is an infection of the female reproductive organs. It occurs when sexually transmitted bacteria spread from the vagina to the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. 1 in 8 women with a history of PID experiences infertility.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease is caused by untreated sexually transmitted Chlamydia and Gonorrhea, which are gotten through unprotected sex. It can also be caused by the insertion of an intrauterine device (IUD).
The risk factors of PID are being sexually active at a very young age, having multiple sexual partners, unprotected sexual intercourse, regular douching and a history of PID.
The symptoms might be mild and difficult to recognize. Meanwhile, when present, symptoms might include pain in the lower abdomen and pelvis, painful sexual intercourse, bleeding between periods, fever, painful urination, nausea, vomiting, foul vaginal discharge and unusually heavy vaginal discharge.
PID might result in complications such as ectopic pregnancy, infertility, chronic pelvic pain and ovarian abscess.
The laboratory diagnosis of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease involves Urine Microscopy and Culture, STI profile, Full Blood Count, Biopsy and Urinalysis.
If PID is diagnosed early, it can be treated with antibiotics, treatment for partners and temporary abstinence. PID can be prevented by practising safe sex, screening and not douching.
Visit MedBioTech for early diagnosis of PID.
References:
www.cdc.gov
www.mayoclinic.org
