Could you be at a risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)?

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) refers to the infection that occurs in the female reproductive organs. It happens when sexually transmitted bacteria infect the uterus, ovaries or fallopian tubes on spreading from the vagina. Generally, the cervix plays the role of preventing the bacteria from entering the vagina and infecting the reproductive organs. But when the cervix becomes exposed to an STD, it loses its power to put a stop to the spread of these microorganisms to the reproductive organs.

What causes this condition?
STDs like gonorrhea and chlamydia have been found to be responsible for about 90% of PID cases.

Some of the other causes include

• Abortion
• Childbirth
• Pelvic procedures

The condition is only detected later in life when you face difficulty in getting pregnant or have chronic pelvic pain complaints. If you experience symptoms like vomiting, high fever, pain in the lower abdomen and instances of fainting, you should immediately seek a doctor.

What puts you at risk for PID?
Certain factors may put you at a higher risk for PID and these are:

• Instances of sexually transmitted diseases like Chlamydia (an STD that can occur from anal, oral or vaginal sex) and gonorrhea (a condition that causes discharge from the vagina or urethra) can make you prone to developing PID.
• Douching on a regular basis can increase your risk of PID as it disrupts the equilibrium of good and bad bacteria in your vagina, and may hide the symptoms of the condition as well.
• Even a previous history of PID can increase your chances of having another episode of PID.
• Compared to older women, teenagers who are sexually active are more prone to developing PID.
• Having multiple sexual partners can also put you at a greater risk for PID and STDs.

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Related Tip: 5 Things That Make PCOD More Likely And Ways to Manage it!