How to Recognize the Symptoms of PID
PID, also known as pelvic inflammatory disease, is an infection that occurs in the female reproductive system. The symptoms of PID vary widely among women, making it difficult to diagnose. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that each year about one million women in the United States are treated for PID. Complications, including infertility, may arise if PID goes untreated. Read on to learn how to recognize the symptoms of PID.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Be aware that most women do not recognize when they have PID. Since symptoms are often mild or do not show up at all, it is common for women to be unaware they are infected despite the damage progressing within their reproductive systems.
-
2
Learn the common symptoms of PID. Women with PID often experience pain in the lower abdomen. Other symptoms include pain while urinating or during sexual intercourse, sudden fever and vaginal discharge that has a bad odor.
-
-
3
Know that less common symptoms may include abnormal menstrual bleeding or pain in the upper abdomen. Not all women will have the same combination of symptoms.
-
4
Keep in mind that because of varying symptoms and those that may be mild to nonexistent, PID may be difficult for your doctor or primary-care provider to diagnose. Regardless, it is important to seek medical attention as early as possible to prevent further damage.
-
5
Make an appointment with your gynecologist or primary-care provider to evaluate your symptoms. Know that your doctor will ask you questions regarding your medical and sexual history. Your doctor will also perform a physical examination that may include a pelvic ultrasound, checking for enlargement of the fallopian tubes and other abnormalities.
-
6
Remember that early treatment of STDs may help you to prevent contracting PID. If you recognize any symptoms that suggest an STD infection, abstain from sexual activity and seek immediate medical care. Douching or washing out the vagina with water or other fluids, may also lead to PID and should be avoided, especially if any symptoms are present.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Bacteria, such as those that lead to chlamydia and gonorrhea, cause PID. Recognize that the most effective way to prevent PID is to maintain safe sexual practices and get tested for STDs on a regular basis.
PID infection spreads throughout the female reproductive system and can cause damage to the fallopian tubes, ovaries and the uterus. The damage caused to these organs can produce scarring that leads to serious complications, including infertility. Seek immediate attention from your gynecologist if you suspect PID.
