Over one million women each year develop pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Far too often, PID is left undetected or is not detected until damage has been done. There are serious consequences to your fertility if you have PID.
Pelvic inflammatory disease is an infection of the reproductive system. The organs most often affected are the uterus and fallopian tubes. When PID is not treated, serious damage to the fallopian tubes and other reproductive organs can result.
Symptoms of PID:
* Pain in the lower abdomen
* Pain during intercourse
* Changes in vaginal discharge and odor
* Irregular periods
* Fever
For some women, there are no symptoms or very vague symptoms. In this case, the woman may have no idea she has the infection until there is another problem. Often, the problem is infertility or an ectopic pregnancy. Because PID causes blockages in the fallopian tubes, the egg may not be able to move through the tube or a fertilized egg may get stuck in the fallopian tube and become an ectopic pregnancy.
Early treatment of PID is the best way to preserve your fertility. If you are experiencing symptoms, be sure to notify your doctor. Treating the condition early is critical in preventing damage to the reproductive organs.
The first step in treatment is for the doctor to identify the cause of the infection. In most cases, STDs such as chlamydia or gonorrhea are the culprit. Once the doctor has identified the cause, antibiotics can be used to treat the infection and prevent further damage. Identifying the cause of the infection isn’t always easy and in many cases, two different antibiotics are given to be sure the infection is treated.
The doctor will want to treat your partner as well. These infections are passed between partners and unless both are treated, the woman can get infected again. The doctor will have you come back in a few days to be sure the treatment is working.
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