Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Treatments For Mild, Moderate, and Severe Cases
According to NIH, about 4% to 12% of women around the world who are of childbearing age have Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID).
PID develops when bacteria from the vagina move to the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries, producing inflammation and infection.
Therefore, it is an infection of a woman’s reproductive organs.
It can cause pelvic pain, infertility, and other complications if left untreated.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease can be a distressing condition, but there’s hope!
With prompt and effective treatment, most women with PID can recover fully and avoid long-term complications.
This article explores the various Pelvic Inflammatory Disease treatments available and what you need to know to manage this condition effectively.
Antibiotics for PID treatment
Antibiotics are the primary treatment for PID and are often prescribed to treat it after a PID diagnosis.
They operate by destroying bacteria responsible for the infection and lowering inflammation.
However, antibiotics cannot reverse any scarring or damage to the reproductive tract that may result from PID.
Your physician can recommend a combination of medications to eliminate all bacteria.
Antibiotics for Pelvic Inflammatory Disease are typically prescribed for a 14-day course.
However, treatment may begin with a single antibiotic injection, depending on the situation.
In extreme circumstances, hospitalization may be necessary to administer antibiotics intravenously via a drip in the arm.
You must complete the entire course of PID antibiotics to eliminate the infection, even if you feel better.
Not finishing the antibiotic course can result in antibiotic resistance and recurring infections.
Additionally, you should avoid sexual activity until you and your partners have finished treatment.
Partners should also undergo testing and treatment to minimize the likelihood of reinfection.
If the antibiotics appear to work, a follow-up appointment may be recommended after three days to confirm the effectiveness of the treatment.
Additional tests and treatment may be needed if symptoms persist beyond three days.
Pain relievers for treatment of PID pain
PID can result in intense pelvic pain, which can be alleviated with pain medication.
Pain relievers like Brufen (Ibuprofen) can help control discomfort associated with PID.
They reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief.
Painkillers can relieve PID pain around the pelvis or tummy while being treated with antibiotics.
Over-the-counter pain relievers can help relieve mild to moderate pain.
However, your doctor may prescribe stronger pain medication if the pain is severe.
Follow your doctor’s instructions when taking pain medication, and avoid taking more than the recommended dose.
How to treat PID using surgery
In rare cases, surgery might be needed to treat PID, where other treatments have failed.
Surgery is usually recommended if an abscess has formed in the fallopian tubes or ovaries.
It may be necessary to remove infected tissues or drain abscesses.
In severe cases, the affected organ may need to be removed.
One type of surgery used to treat PID is laparoscopy.
Surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia, and you may need to stay in the hospital for a few days after the procedure.
How is PID treated using alternative therapies
Some women may choose to use alternative therapies to manage the symptoms of PID.
However, there is limited scientific evidence to support the use of alternative or natural remedies for PID.
Some alternative treatment options that may be used in conjunction with antibiotics or in cases where antibiotics are not effective include:
- Herbal pessary (vaginal insert that contains herbal ingredients): A 2023 study showed that a group of women with uncomplicated PID treated with an herbal pessary of linseed, psyllium, and honey did better than those receiving standard antibiotic
- Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM): Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are beneficial in treating Chronic Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (CPID). However, more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of CAM in treating PID
It is essential to talk to your doctor before using any alternative therapies to ensure that they are safe and effective.
Possible complications of untreated Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Untreated Pelvic Inflammatory Disease can lead to several complications, including:
- Recurrent PID episodes, which can increase the risk of infertility
- Formation of abscesses, mostly in the fallopian tubes and ovaries, which may require surgery
- Difficult to manage chronic pelvic pain, which can lead to further problems such as depression and insomnia
- Increased risk of ectopic pregnancies, as scarred fallopian tubes can trap fertilized eggs, leading to tubal pregnancies
- Difficulty becoming pregnant, as scarring or abscesses can block the eggs’ passage into the uterus
Early detection and treatment of PID are crucial to avoid these complications.
The long-term effects of untreated PID can be severe. They may include Peritonitis, a life-threatening infection that spreads throughout the abdominal cavity.
Prevention techniques to avoid treatment for PID
To decrease the risk of developing Pelvic Inflammatory Disease:
- Practice safe sex: Use condoms consistently and limit the number of sexual partners
- Discuss contraception with your healthcare provider: Not all contraceptives protect against Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
- Get tested regularly: If you’re at risk of an STI, get screened periodically
- Communicate with your partner(s): Talk to your partner(s) about their sexual histories and encourage them to get tested
- Do not douche: Douches upset the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina
- Be extra cautious: Consider using barrier methods like condoms with new partners, even if taking birth control pills
Conclusion
While Pelvic Inflammatory Disease can be concerning, it’s important to remember that effective treatments are available.
Individuals can manage PID by seeking prompt medical attention and following treatment plans.
The primary treatment for PID is antibiotics, with a 14-day course being the standard.
Pain relievers can also help control discomfort associated with PID.
In rare cases, surgery may be needed to treat PID, where other treatments have failed.
It is crucial to complete the entire course of antibiotics and avoid sexual activity until treatment is complete.
Furthermore, untreated PID can lead to several complications, including recurrent PID episodes, abscess formation, ectopic pregnancy, and infertility.
It is very important to see a doctor right away if you think you might have PID.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to treat Pelvic Inflammatory Disease?
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is treated with antibiotics to eliminate the bacterial infection. Pain management, surgery, and alternative therapies may also be necessary in some cases. Talking to a doctor for accurate diagnosis and treatment would be best.
What is the best treatment for Pelvic Inflammatory Disease?
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease is best treated with antibiotics and pain medication from a doctor to improve recovery and prevent complications. PID is treated with antibiotics to kill the infection-causing bacteria. Multiple bacteria strains are usually treated with a combination of antibiotics. You should finish the course even if symptoms disappear.
Can PID be cured completely?
Yes, PID can be cured with prompt and appropriate treatment. Antibiotics are the primary treatment for PID and can eliminate the bacterial infection that causes the disease. It is crucial to complete the entire course of antibiotics, even if you start feeling better, to ensure the infection is properly cleared.
How long does it take to recover from PID?
Recovery time for PID varies based on its severity and treatment response. Generally, most women recover within several weeks to months following prompt and appropriate care. Consulting a healthcare professional and adhering to their recommendations is vital for optimal healing outcomes.
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