25/02/2025
PELVIC INFLAMMATORY DISEASE (PID)
PID is one of the most preventable causes of infertility, yet many women don’t know about it, till it leads to complications.
PID is an infection and inflammation of the female reproductive organs, including the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries.
In PID, bacteria travel from the va**na or cervix into the upper reproductive system, leading to infection and possible scarring or the organs.
This can cause irreversible damage to the fallopian tubes, especially if not treated on time, making it difficult to conceive.
WHAT CAUSES PID?
PID is most commonly caused by s*xually transmitted infections (STIs), but other bacteria can also be responsible.
The main causes include:
- Chlamydia and Gonorrhea: These are the leading causes of PID.
The reason is, these infections are mostly asymptomatic, and so go on to affect reproductive organs silently.
- Bacterial Vaginosis: An imbalance of va**nal bacteria can increase the risk of infection spreading.
- Unprotected s*x: Having multiple partners or a new s*xual partner increases the risk of STIs, which can lead to PID.
- Douching: Douching disturbs the natural balance of va**nal bacteria, making it easier for harmful bacteria to get to the organs.
- IUD insertion, childbirth or abortion: Any procedure that opens the cervix can introduce bacteria back into the uterus.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?
PID can develop silently, meaning that some women won’t experience symptoms till serious complications arise.
When symptoms appear, they include:
- Lower abdominal or pelvic pain
- Unusual va**nal discharge with a bad odor
- Pain or bleeding during sec
- Burning sensation on urination
- Fever and chills
- Irregular menstruation.
Because these symptoms can be mistaken for other conditions, many women don’t see medical attention until damage has been done.
HOW IS IT TREATED?
PID is treated with a combination of antibiotics, for at-least 2 weeks.
It’s important to complete your dose even af
