How to Prevent Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Annually, roughly 1 million women in the U.S. alone have symptoms of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). A chronic condition, PID can cause aches, cramping, and pain in your lower abdomen, as well as other unpleasant symptoms. It can even interfere with your fertility.

At North Atlanta Ob/Gyn in Atlanta, Georgia, our team of experienced reproductive specialists can make an accurate diagnosis regarding your pelvic pain, narrow down potential causes, and offer effective treatment to lessen or eliminate your PID symptoms.

Pelvic inflammatory disease basics

PID is an inflammatory disease that generally starts in the lower region of your reproductive system, and works its way upward, affecting your uterus, ovaries, and/or fallopian tubes. Other systems in the pelvic area, such as the bladder, can also become compromised.  

PID generally makes itself known when one or more types of bacteria take a foothold in your  reproductive system. Bacterial invasion can cause significant inflammation, infection, and tissue damage.

One of the most common causes of PID is bacteria associated with sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Around 85% of PID cases begin with an STI such as gonorrhea or chlamydia, and 10-15% of women with these infections will go on to develop PID. Bacteria such as E. coli or bacteria that cause respiratory infections can also lead to PID.

Symptoms of PID

The most common symptom of PID is chronic or recurrent pain and aching in your lower abdomen. PID can also cause symptoms like:

• Irregular menstrual bleeding
• Pain during or after intercourse
• Pain during urination
• Vaginal discharge
• Vaginal itching or burning

Some people who have PID don’t have any symptoms at all until the disease is advanced, which is why having regular gynecological checkups is so important.

PID prevention

Any female has some risk of developing PID. Here are some things you can do to mitigate your risk and head off PID at the pass:

Protect yourself during sex

Sexually active women need to worry not just about contraception, but safer sex to defend themselves against potential STIs. Even if you’re on birth control, consider using a barrier method with partners. This can mean a male or female condom. Used properly, these methods can help protect you from STIs.

Get regular screenings

Even the safest sex isn’t 100% safe, so get regular STI screenings if you’re sexually active, especially if you have multiple partners. Frequent STI screening can “catch” infections early, before they have a chance to spread and cause PID. Screening is confidential and discreet.

Don’t douche

The media and female “health” marketing companies have convinced women that their vaginas are “icky” and need to be “cleaned” frequently. Vaginal products like douche often disrupt the natural flora that helps your reproductive tract fight off bacteria. Skip the douche, wash with plain soap (on the outside) and water, and see a doctor if you experience smells or discharge.

If you have symptoms of pelvic inflammatory disease or it’s time for an STI screening, call the office nearest you or use online scheduling to book an appointment today. We have Atlanta-area offices in Sandy Springs, Alpharetta, and Marietta.