Chronic Pelvic Inflammation: Causes and Concerns for Women

Q: Chronic Pelvic Inflammation: Causes and Concerns for Women

Dear online friends： Hello! There are many causes of lower abdominal pain in women. <br>Of course, pelvic inflammatory disease can also cause women to experience lower abdominal pain. <br>If it is confirmed to be a bacterial infection causing pelvic inflammatory disease, untreate

Chronic pelvic inflammatory disease?

Hello Doctor, it has been over 8 months since I gave birth.
As a working woman, I have been busy with work and lacking sleep.
Could this be the reason for my persistent pelvic inflammation? I have seen a doctor and took medication, but after a few days, I started experiencing lower abdominal pain again.
After urinating, I notice a bit of transparent discharge, and sometimes it is quite painful.
Recently, during intercourse with my husband, I felt pain.
The last time I visited the doctor for pelvic inflammation, he performed a Pap smear and mentioned that there were signs of inflammation and that I should return for a follow-up.
However, I went to see him because of the inflammation, so of course, there would be signs of inflammation.
I have not returned for a follow-up yet and would like to ask the doctor what could happen if I continue to have inflammation without seeking further treatment.
Additionally, I have another question: is it normal to have a strong odor during menstruation? I feel that the odor has been quite strong during my periods for the past two years.
Is this normal?

judy, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/03/19

Dr. Chen Changfu reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Dear online friends: Hello! There are many causes of lower abdominal pain in women.
Of course, pelvic inflammatory disease can also cause women to experience lower abdominal pain.
If it is confirmed to be a bacterial infection causing pelvic inflammatory disease, untreated, it may worsen into peritonitis, leading to severe lower abdominal pain and abdominal distension.
During menstruation, non-pathogenic bacteria in the vagina may break down the protein components in menstrual blood, resulting in an ammonia-like odor after protein decomposition, which can be quite strong and is not necessarily a symptom of disease.

Reply Date: 2005/03/19

More Info

Chronic pelvic inflammation is a condition that can significantly impact a woman's quality of life, particularly after childbirth, as you have described. Your symptoms, including persistent lower abdominal pain, discomfort during urination, and pain during intercourse, suggest that you may be experiencing ongoing inflammation in the pelvic region. This can be exacerbated by factors such as stress, lack of sleep, and the demands of a busy lifestyle, which can weaken the immune system and make it more difficult for the body to heal.

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is often caused by infections that ascend from the vagina or cervix into the uterus, fallopian tubes, and surrounding tissues. Common pathogens include sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia and gonorrhea, but other bacteria can also contribute to the condition. Chronic inflammation can lead to scarring and adhesions in the pelvic area, which may result in chronic pain and complications such as infertility or ectopic pregnancy.

If left untreated, chronic pelvic inflammation can lead to more severe complications. The persistent inflammation can cause damage to the reproductive organs, leading to chronic pain syndromes, and may also increase the risk of infertility. In some cases, the inflammation can result in the formation of abscesses or other serious complications that may require surgical intervention. Therefore, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Regarding your concern about the strong odor during menstruation, it is not uncommon for menstrual blood to have a distinct smell, which can vary from person to person. However, a strong or foul odor may indicate an underlying issue, such as an infection or the presence of retained menstrual products. If you notice a significant change in the odor of your menstrual flow, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like unusual discharge, itching, or pain, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

In summary, it is essential to address chronic pelvic inflammation proactively. Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider can help monitor your condition, adjust treatment as necessary, and prevent complications. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, and ensuring adequate rest can support your overall health and recovery. If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice and support.

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