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Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and surrounding tissues. It is more commonly seen in sexually active women, particularly those with multiple partners. It is rarely observed after menopause.
Infection agents that can cause the disease include sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. After childbirth, miscarriage, or abortion, infection agents usually enter the body during sexual intercourse. Sometimes, it may not be possible to identify a specific microorganism.
Blood tests, urine tests, and cultures from vaginal discharge are performed to detect the infection agent. In cases where abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding coexist, differential diagnosis with ectopic pregnancy must be made. Both conditions are life-threatening problems, and pregnancy tests can be used to diagnose ectopic pregnancy. Sometimes, laparoscopy may be necessary. If PID is present, the ovaries and tubes appear swollen and edematous during observation.
Mild PID without fever and severe pain is usually treated with oral antibiotics.
In more severe cases of PID, intravenous antibiotics are required.
If a contraceptive device (IUD) is being used, it needs to be removed.
If an abscess has developed, it must be surgically drained.
In serious cases of PID, the patient may need to be hospitalized for treatment with intravenous antibiotics.
If the infection is not treated, tubo-ovarian abscess formation and systemic spread of the infection may occur. PID can lead to scar formation in the tubes, which can complicate future pregnancies. Therefore, prompt treatment of PID is important. Additionally, these scars can impair tubal motility, leading to ectopic pregnancy.
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