Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) only affects women and can range from a mild infection to a very serious disorder. It is caused by an infection that is able to pass through a womans cervix into the pelvic cavity. The bacteria primarily associated with PID are those responsible for gonorrhoea and chlamydia.
If left untreated PID may lead to scarring of the fallopian tubes, often resulting in infertility and increased risk of ectopic pregnancy (when the pregnancy develops outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube).
Signs and symptoms of PID The symptoms of PID can vary enormously and this makes the condition difficult to diagnose. Infections can be acute and sudden or mild and long term. The most common symptoms of an acute infection are:
Severe abdominal pain; High temperature; Nausea; Vaginal discharge; Fast pulse; Pain or discomfort during sex.
The most common symptoms of a long-term infection are:
Constant abdominal pain or discomfort; Weakness and tiredness; Heavy and painful periods; Pain or discomfort during sex; Bleeding between menstrual cycles.
Development of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease In order for PID to develop, a bacterial infection has to enter the pelvic cavity. This can occur:
When the cervix is dilated during childbirth, miscarriage or abortion; When an intrauterine contraceptive device is inserted, e.g. the coil; When an infection is left untreated or not treated promptly.
Treatment of PID Pelvic Inflammatory Disease is treated with antibiotics, painkillers and rest. Only in severe cases will a hospital admission be necessary. Strenuous or vigorous exercise, including sexual intercourse, should be avoided until all inflammation has subsided. It will be necessary for any sexual partners to attend for a sexual health screening.
