What is Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)? Causes, Symptoms & Risk Factors

What is Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)?

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is a common infection that affects a woman’s reproductive organs. It happens when bacteria move from the vagina or cervix into the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries. Because PID can cause serious health problems, it is important to know the signs and get help early. According to the CDC, PID affects about 1 million women in the United States each year. Early treatment can help protect your reproductive health and prevent long-term issues.

Common Symptoms of PID

Many women with PID may not notice symptoms at first. However, some signs can appear and may include:

Lower belly pain or tenderness

Unusual vaginal discharge with a bad smell

Pain during sex

Painful or frequent urination

Fever or chills

Irregular periods or bleeding between periods

Sometimes, symptoms can be mild. But even mild symptoms can lead to serious problems if not treated. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to any changes in your body.

Causes and Risk Factors

Most often, PID is caused by bacteria from sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as chlamydia or gonorrhea. However, other bacteria can also cause PID. The infection can spread during sex or after childbirth, miscarriage, or abortion. Some factors can increase your risk of getting PID, including:

Having more than one sexual partner

Having sex without a condom

History of STIs or PID

Being under 25 and sexually active

Recent douching, which can push bacteria into the uterus

Because these risk factors are common, it is important to practice safe habits to protect your reproductive health.

How is PID Diagnosed?

Doctors use several steps to diagnose PID. First, they ask about your symptoms and medical history. Next, they do a physical exam, which may include a pelvic exam to check for pain or swelling. In addition, your doctor may order tests such as:

Swabs of vaginal or cervical fluid to check for bacteria

Urine tests

Blood tests to look for infection

Ultrasound to see your reproductive organs

Sometimes, if the diagnosis is unclear, doctors may suggest a minor surgery called laparoscopy to look inside the pelvis. Early diagnosis is key to preventing long-term problems.

Treatment Options for PID

Once diagnosed, PID is usually treated with antibiotics. Your doctor will often start treatment right away, even before test results are back. This helps stop the infection quickly. Treatment may include:

Antibiotic pills or injections

Pain relievers for discomfort

Hospital care for severe cases or if you are pregnant

It is important to finish all your medicine, even if you feel better. Also, your sexual partner should get treated to prevent reinfection. If PID is not treated early, it can cause lasting damage, such as infertility or chronic pain.

Prevention Tips and Lifestyle Guidance

While PID can be serious, you can take steps to lower your risk. Here are some tips to help prevent pelvic inflammatory disease:

Use condoms every time you have sex

Limit your number of sexual partners

Get tested regularly for STIs

Avoid douching, as it can upset the natural balance of bacteria

See your doctor for regular check-ups

Because prevention is better than cure, these simple steps can help protect your health and well-being.

When to See a Doctor

If you notice any symptoms of PID, such as pelvic pain, unusual discharge, or fever, see a healthcare provider right away. Early treatment can prevent serious problems. Even if your symptoms are mild, it is better to get checked. Remember, regular visits to your doctor can help catch infections early and keep your reproductive system healthy.

If you have symptoms or concerns about PID, consult a healthcare specialist for personalized advice.