Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease?
And How Advanced Gynecology Can Help
If you are suffering from symptoms related to PID, Advanced Gynecology is here for you. Our board-certified team of women's health experts is ready to help you with diagnostic care and a range of treatment options. We will counsel you about the best options for you and your health.
Causes & Diagnosis of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Pelvic inflammatory disease is caused by bacteria moving up from the vagina or cervix into the reproductive organs. While many different types of bacteria can cause PID, it is usually caused by infection from gonorrhea and chlamydia. A PID can also be caused by normal bacteria traveling up into the reproductive organs. This can sometimes occur because of douching.
If you have pain in your lower abdomen, your doctor or nurse will check for:
- Unusual discharge from your vagina or cervix
- An abscess near your ovaries or fallopian tubes
- Tenderness or pain in your reproductive organs
- Tests for STIs, especially gonorrhea and chlamydia
- Tests for other infections or conditions that can cause pelvic pain such as a urinary tract infection
- An ultrasound or other imaging test to look at signs of PID in internal organs
Signs & Symptoms of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
- Pain in the lower abdomen or upper right abdomen (rare)
- Fever or chills
- Vaginal discharge that may have a foul smell
- Painful sex or pain when urinating
- Extreme exhaustion
- Irregular menstrual periods
PID can develop quickly, with extreme pain and fever (especially if caused by gonorrhea).
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Prevention
Abstain from douching— this practice is acknowledged as not good for vaginal health. Not only can douching cause irritation and infections, it can push bad bacteria deeper into the reproductive organs and increase the risk for PID.
When to See A Doctor about Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
If you are experiencing pain in the lower abdomen, a change in vaginal discharge, irregular periods or bleeding in between periods, call your doctor. Your doctor will talk to you about your history and perform a range of diagnostic tests to see if you have PID. If you are diagnosed with PID, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. As with all antibiotics, make sure to take the full dosage even if your symptoms go away.
For more information, schedule an appointment today or call 678-235-9068 to speak with one of our patient coordinators.
