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Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease treatment at Texas Fertility Center New Braunfels

Pelvic inflammatory disease is inflammation of the female reproductive tract, including the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. PID is usually caused by the sexually transmitted diseases chlamydia and gonorrhea. Sexually transmitted bacteria spread from the vagina to the uterus and upper genital tract. If you’ve had PID, you are at greater risk for infertility.

Causes of pelvic inflammatory disease

The most common cause of pelvic inflammatory disease is unsafe sexual practice. Unprotected sex with one or more partners can increase the risk of PID. The bacteria that cause the disease can also enter the reproductive tract from IUD insertion, giving birth, miscarriage or endometrial biopsy.

Symptoms of PID

Symptoms of PID can include:

  • Pain in the lower abdomen and pelvis
  • Low back pain
  • Heavy vaginal discharge and odor
  • Irregular bleeding during periods
  • Difficulty with urination
  • Painful intercourse
  • Fever
  • Fatigue
  • Diarrhea or vomiting

Some women show no symptoms. If you have severe symptoms, call your doctor immediately.

Treatment

Prescribed antibiotics are the most common treatment for PID. Pain medication may also be prescribed. To avoid a reinfection of a sexually transmitted disease, sexual partners should also be examined and treated. If PID does not respond to a course of antibiotics, hospitalization may be necessary for more intense antibiotic treatment.

Reducing your risk of pelvic inflammatory disease

To reduce your risk, practice safe sex, including condom use and limiting your number of partners. Know your partners’ sexual history. It is important to be tested for sexually transmitted infections because early diagnosis and treatment helps to prevent inflammation and complications. Ask your partner to be tested. Do not douche because this affects the vaginal bacteria. Lastly, practice good hygiene habits.

Dr. Susan Hudson can diagnose and treat PID and other conditions that cause infertility.

Contact Texas Fertility Center of New Braunfels today, and let us help you get closer to achieving your dreams of having a family.