Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is an infection of the female reproductive organs—including the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. It’s a serious condition that requires prompt treatment by a gynaecologist to prevent long-term complications like infertility, chronic pelvic pain, or ectopic pregnancy.

What Causes PID?

PID usually results from a bacterial infection that spreads from the vagina or cervix upward into the uterus and fallopian tubes. Common causes include:

• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia or gonorrhea
• After childbirth, miscarriage, abortion, or IUD insertion
• Poor vaginal hygiene or untreated vaginal infections

Common Symptoms of PID:

• Lower abdominal or pelvic pain
• Fever and chills
• Abnormal vaginal discharge (foul-smelling, yellow/greenish)
• Pain during sex
• Burning during urination
• Irregular menstrual bleeding

Some women may have mild or no symptoms, especially in early stages—making regular gynaecological check-ups important.

How a Gynaecologist Diagnoses PID:

• Pelvic exam
• Vaginal swabs and cervical cultures (to check for infection)
• Blood tests
• Ultrasound (to check for abscesses or inflamed tubes)
• In some cases, laparoscopy may be done for confirmation

Treatment of PID:

• Antibiotics (oral or injectable) – started immediately
• Hospitalization if:
  Severe symptoms
  Pregnant
  Abscess present
• Partner treatment – to avoid reinfection
• Surgical drainage – in rare cases if abscesses form or don’t respond to medication

Complications if Untreated:

• Infertility
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Ectopic pregnancy (life-threatening)
• Tubo-ovarian abscess

Preventing PID:

• Practice safe sex (use condoms)
• Get regular STI screenings
• Prompt treatment of any vaginal infections
• Avoid frequent vaginal douching (it disturbs natural flora)