Pelvic inflammatory disease

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease, (PID), is a disorder caused by the inflammation or infection of the female reproductive organs. It can affect all tissues within the female pelvis, especially the fallopian tubes, ovaries, uterus and other surrounding tissues.

PID is on the increase, particularly among younger age groups. It is more common in young women aged 18-24 years, and has risen by 5-10 per cent every year for the past 20 years! Some experts feel that this is a result of increased sexual activity and promiscuity.

Causes

The condition can be caused by several different infecting organisms, but particularly a `bug' called `Chlamydia trachomatis', usually known as `Chlamydia'. Sometimes the infection may be sexually transmitted, and in other cases the offending organisms may have spread upwards from the vagina or neck of the womb. Infection can be introduced during various gynaecological procedures such as a D & C, termination of pregnancy, and insertion of an IUD (Intra Uterine Device or `coil'). Miscarriage and even childbirth, offer bacteria opportunities to enter the pelvic organs.

Symptoms

The symptoms of PID include lower abdominal pain and tenderness, fever, irregular periods, and vaginal discharge. Often the pain is worse immediately after a period, and sometimes during intercourse. It can be a very difficult condition to diagnose, as the symptoms can be caused by other gynaecological disorders.

Diagnosis

To diagnosis PID, swabs need to be taken from the vagina, the urethra and rectum to find out exactly what organisms are the cause of the infection. A swab is also taken from the entry into the cervix, to assess if the organism `Chlamydia' is present, as this is often the culprit. A more reliable diagnosis of PID is best obtained using laporoscopy where a small telescope like instrument is inserted through a tiny incision in the abdomen is made, to look directly at the pelvic organs.

PID may produce such scarring and deformity of the pelvic organs, that infertility is the result. After one attack, 11% of women become infertile, after 2 attacks, the figure rises to 23%, and after 3 episodes, 54% of women will become infertile.

Prompt investigation and early treatment with the correct combination of antibiotics is, therfore, essential to reduce the incidence of later complications such as pelvic pain and infertility.

Treatment of the sexual partner or partners is also essential, even though they may not show any obvious signs of sexual disease!
IMPORTANT NOTICE : This content is from the Dr Chris Steele personal archive and is provided for convenience only. Information contained here may no longer agree with the most up to date medical advice. Please check with a medical professional before taking any action.

More like this
Women's Health
Men's Health
Illnesses
Use this page



Privacy Terms | Advertisers | Legal Disclaimer | Contact
© 2007 TheFamilyGP.com