Understanding Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

If you’re experiencing chronic pelvic pain, a sexually transmitted disease may not be the first cause that comes to mind. However, more than 1 million women a year are diagnosed with pelvic inflammatory disease or PID, a common disease that causes abdominal pain.

Though PID is very common, many women may not realize that they have it until painful complications develop. Worse, some women may avoid treatment out of fear or embarrassment. 

PID is nothing to be ashamed of, but it’s also a disease that you shouldn’t ignore. That’s why we’re here to demystify PID and encourage you to seek treatment from a trusted OB/GYN. Let’s start with the basics.

What is Pelvic Inflammatory Disease?

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease is a bacterial infection of your reproductive organs: the womb, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. The majority of PID cases develop as a complication of sexually transmitted diseases, when bacteria spread from the vagina into the reproductive organs. You are more likely to get PID if you:

  • Have an untreated STD, especially chlamydia or gonorrhea

  • Have more than one sexual partner or a partner who has sex with people other than you

  • Have sex without a condom

  • Douche regularly

  • Have had an intrauterine device (IUD) placed in the last 3 weeks (though this is rare)

How Do I Know If I Have PID?

Because symptoms can be subtle, some women don’t realize they have PID until chronic pelvic pain develops or they have trouble getting pregnant. If you do develop symptoms, they may include:

  • Mild to severe pain in your pelvis or lower abdomen

  • Abnormal vaginal discharge that may have an unpleasant odor

  • Pain during intercourse

  • Bleeding between periods or during/after intercourse

  • Fever and chills

  • Painful, frequent, or difficult urination, sometimes with a burning sensation

You should see your doctor right away if you experience these symptoms, even if they are mild. While there isn’t a test specifically for PID, your provider will take a detailed history and perform a physical exam, including a routine STD test.

You should have an open and honest conversation with your OB/GYN—there is no reason to feel embarrassed about getting the treatment you need! 

Why Does PID Cause Chronic Pain?

Because PID is linked to bacterial infection, over time it can lead to inflammatory damage if left untreated. As the condition develops, painful scar tissue, adhesions, or abscesses can form. Adhesions are bands of scar tissue that can bind the fallopian tubes, ovaries, uterus, or other organs together. Abscesses are puss-filled masses that form around infected tissue. 

These complications can cause chronic pelvic pain in many women if left untreated, as well as other complications such as:

  • Ectopic pregnancy

  • Infertility

  • Tubo-ovarian abscess, which could become a life-threatening infection

How Is PID Treated?

Thankfully, treatments for PID are widely available to stop these more serious complications from developing. When caught early, PID normally responds well to medication. That’s why you should get routine yearly exams and STD tests and see your doctor as soon as you have concerns. 

Once your provider has determined that PID is the cause of your pelvic pain, they will usually prescribe a round of antibiotics. In the meantime, you should avoid having sex until your treatment is complete. Your sexual partner or partners should also be examined and treated, even if they aren’t experiencing symptoms, as reinfection is possible. 

If your condition does not respond to oral antibiotics, you may need to receive them via IV at the hospital. Surgery is rarely necessary unless you have abscesses that rupture or threaten to rupture. Your doctor will monitor your condition throughout treatment to make sure you get the care you need.

Pelvic Pain Solutions

You shouldn’t live with chronic pelvic pain. Even if PID is not the cause, an expert OB/GYN like Dr. Gary B. Sullivan can help you find a solution. Waiting too long can lead to further complications, but with proper care and professional support, you can prevent these issues and enjoy a pain-free life.

Gary B. Sullivan: Statesboro Women’s Health Specialists

Chronic pelvic pain can cause a lot of difficult or stressful feelings along with physical discomfort. You need a provider who will listen to your concerns and treat you with professional care and compassion. If you are experiencing abdominal or pelvic pain, don’t wait—call Dr. Gary B. Sullivan today at 912-871-2000 or request an appointment here.


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