Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Treatment

An infection of the upper female reproductive system—including the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries—is referred to as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Usually the result of contracting a sexually transmitted disease (STD), most commonly chlamydia and gonorrhea, PID can lead to a number of health problems if left untreated, including fertility problems, long-term pelvic pain and irreversible damage to the female reproductive system.

To schedule a consultation with a qualified healthcare provider in that specializes in pelvic inflammatory disease treatment, call (408) 946-9453or contact us online.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Cause

Bacteria spreading from your vagina to your uterus, fallopian tubes or ovaries can infect your reproductive system, consequently causing reproductive issues, and is primarily transmitted sexually (through sexually transmitted infection, or STI), though additional PID-causing sources of bacteria may include:

• Childbirth
• A recent operation on the womb
• Receiving an intrauterine device (IUD)
• Miscarriage
• Abortion

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Symptoms

Pelvic inflammatory disease symptoms include:

• Lower abdominal and pelvic pain
• Unusual vaginal discharge accompanied by unpleasant odor (which could indicate a sexually transmitted infection)
• Irregular menstrual bleeding
• Painful intercourse
• Fever
• Painful urination or difficulty urinating

If you present with symptoms of a sexually transmitted infection (STI), it is imperative that you refrain from having sex and visit your healthcare provider. Prompt STI treatment can prevent the onset of PID.

Additionally, is imperative that you see your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following, more serious symptoms which could indicate a more immediate health concern:

• Severe pain in your lower abdomen
• Vomiting
• Signs of shock including fainting
• Fever with temperature that exceeds 101°F (28.3°C)

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Diagnosis

In order for your healthcare provider to make a pelvic inflammatory disease diagnosis, your symptoms will be discussed, followed by a pelvic exam, during which your healthcare provider uses a cotton swab to take samples from your vagina and cervix. Your healthcare provider will observe for cervical bleeding or tenderness as well as for fluid leakage. An analysis of vaginal discharge, cervical cultures and urine tests may also be conducted. The following diagnostic tests can confirm PID:

• Pelvic ultrasound or CT scan
• Endometrial biopsy
• Laparoscopy

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Treatment

Pelvic inflammatory disease treatment will likely start with a course of antibiotics, which will be adjusted upon receiving your lab results. Antibiotics will be taken for two weeks, and then a follow-up visit will determine whether they need to be adjusted. More serious cases of PID may require hospitalization where intravenous (IV) antibiotics can be administered, followed by antibiotics taken orally. Rarely, surgery may be performed in patients who do not respond to antibiotic treatment.

When PID goes untreated, more serious problems can follow, including:

• Tubal Factor Infertility
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Chronic pelvic pain

While treatment can eliminate the infection, it cannot reverse any damage already inflicted upon your reproductive system. It is imperative to seek treatment immediately and to inform your sexual partner(s) so that they too may receive treatment.

Preventing Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

To safeguard against pelvic inflammatory disease, practicing safe sex and being regularly treated for STDs if you are sexually active is recommended. Additionally, if you use a douche, it is recommended to refrain use as douching affects the balance of bacteria in your vagina. If you experience any of the aforementioned PID symptoms, seeking prompt treatment could help prevent the risk of PID complications. To schedule a consultation with a qualified healthcare provider in that specializes in pelvic inflammatory disease treatment, call (408) 946-9453 or contact us online.

Author

Gul A. Zikria, MD, FACOG As an expert in preventive care, innovative treatment solutions, and laparoscopic surgery, board-certified OB/GYN Gul A. Zikria, MD, FACOG, is a trusted practitioner who’s been in private practice since 1985. Dr. Zikria earned his doctor of medicine from Rutgers New Jersey Medical School in Newark. He went on to complete a competitive surgical residency program at Georgetown University in Washington. Dr. Zikria then went through a comprehensive obstetrics and gynecology residency program through the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center at the Magee-Women’s Hospital. He welcomes new and existing patients to his practice in Milpitas, California.