Pelvic Inflammatory Disease: Symptoms and Self-Assessment Tips

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

Hello, I am a 21-year-old female who has had sexual intercourse.
I underwent a two-week treatment for pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in January of this year.
My menstrual period started on February 19, and today is the second day.
I occasionally experience sharp pain on the left side of my abdomen (near the navel, above the hip bone), but it subsides after a while.
I would like to know if drinking less water could have an impact, or if this indicates that I may have developed chronic pelvic inflammatory disease.
What other characteristics of chronic pelvic inflammatory disease can I observe on my own? Thank you.

Ting Ting, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/02/20

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

A 21-year-old female with a history of sexual activity underwent two weeks of treatment for pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in January of this year.
On February 19, the first day of her menstrual period, she experienced occasional sharp pain on the left side of her abdomen (near the navel, above the hip bone), which subsided after a while.
She is inquiring whether drinking less water could have an impact or if this indicates the development of chronic pelvic inflammatory disease.

Answer: Drinking less water can have an impact.

She also asks what other features of chronic pelvic inflammatory disease she can observe on her own.

Answer: Chronic pelvic inflammatory disease is a result of incomplete treatment of acute pelvic inflammatory disease.

Reply Date: 2018/02/20

More Info

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is a significant health concern for women, particularly those who are sexually active. It is an infection of the female reproductive organs, which can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly. Understanding the symptoms and self-assessment tips for PID is crucial for early detection and management.

Symptoms of PID:
Common symptoms of PID include:
1. Pelvic Pain: This is often the most prominent symptom. Pain may be constant or intermittent and can vary in intensity. In your case, the occasional sharp pain on the left side of your abdomen could be indicative of PID, especially if it is localized near the ovaries or fallopian tubes.

2. Menstrual Irregularities: Changes in your menstrual cycle, such as increased pain during menstruation or irregular bleeding, can be a sign of PID.

3. Unusual Discharge: A change in vaginal discharge, particularly if it is foul-smelling, can indicate an infection.

4. Fever and Chills: Systemic symptoms like fever may occur, indicating a more severe infection.

5. Pain during Intercourse: Discomfort or pain during sexual activity can also be a symptom of PID.

Self-Assessment Tips:
1. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their intensity, and any associated factors (like your menstrual cycle). This can help you identify patterns and provide useful information to your healthcare provider.

2. Hydration: Drinking adequate water is essential for overall health and can help prevent urinary tract infections, which may exacerbate pelvic pain. Dehydration can lead to concentrated urine, which may irritate the bladder and worsen discomfort.

3. Sexual Health Practices: Ensure safe sexual practices, including the use of condoms, to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that can lead to PID.

4. Seek Medical Attention: If you experience persistent or worsening symptoms, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider. They may perform a pelvic exam, ultrasound, or other tests to diagnose PID or rule out other conditions.

Chronic Pelvic Inflammatory Disease:
Chronic PID can develop if acute PID is not adequately treated. Symptoms of chronic PID may include:
- Persistent pelvic pain that lasts for months or longer.

- Recurring episodes of acute pain.

- Infertility or difficulty conceiving, as chronic PID can lead to scarring and blockages in the reproductive tract.

- Chronic fatigue or malaise.

Conclusion:
Given your history of PID treatment and the current symptoms you are experiencing, it is essential to remain vigilant. While occasional abdominal pain may not necessarily indicate a progression to chronic PID, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely. If you notice any worsening or new symptoms, or if the pain persists, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation. Early intervention can prevent complications and improve your overall reproductive health. Remember, maintaining good hydration, practicing safe sex, and being proactive about your health are key components in managing and preventing PID.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Pelvic Inflammatory Diseases: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Hello, doctor. Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions. I am quite troubled by the recurring gynecological issues. As I am approaching the age for conception, I would like to better understand the impact of gynecological infections. I have annual blood tests, and eve...

Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, Miss Anonymous: 1. It can sometimes be difficult to differentiate between urethritis and cystitis, which is why they are often collectively referred to as urinary tract infections. The two organs are very close in proximity, and inflammation typically starts in the urinar...

Understanding Pelvic Inflammatory Disease: Symptoms and Treatment Options

Hello, I have been experiencing some symptoms recently: 1. My menstrual cycle is normal, but for four consecutive months, the menstrual flow has been significantly less than usual. In the fifth month, the flow returned to normal, but I have not had my period for the past two mo...

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
1. Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) often presents with lower abdominal pain, which may worsen upon palpation. It can sometimes be accompanied by lower back pain. This condition is more commonly seen in individuals who have recently engaged in sexual activity. There may be an in...

Understanding Pelvic Inflammatory Disease: Symptoms and Diagnosis

Hello doctor, I took emergency contraception six months ago, and I experienced very heavy bleeding that month. Since then, my menstrual flow has been lighter and irregular, accompanied by intermittent lower abdominal pain. Sometimes the pain is sharp on one side, and other times ...

Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, Miss Anonymous: 1. Engaging in sexual activities using fingers or oral sex can potentially introduce bacteria into the uterus or pelvic cavity, leading to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). 2. The diagnosis of pelvic inflammatory disease generally requires a pelvic exam...

Understanding Chronic Pelvic Inflammatory Disease: Symptoms and Treatment Options

Last March, I suddenly experienced severe pain in my lower abdomen, accompanied by cold sweats, dizziness, nausea, and diarrhea. I was taken to the emergency room and diagnosed with acute gastroenteritis. However, afterward, I began to have intermittent sharp pains in both ovarie...

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
The symptoms you mentioned are somewhat similar, but not exactly the same. There are also other possibilities. Besides the symptoms, an actual examination by a gynecologist is crucial for a definitive diagnosis. Therefore, I encourage you to visit an obstetrics and gynecology hos...