Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a significant infection affecting the female reproductive organs, including the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and adjacent structures. PID can be either acute or chronic, presenting with a range of severity. If not properly treated, it can lead to serious health issues such as infertility, chronic pelvic pain, and ectopic pregnancy.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections primarily spread through sexual contact. Common STIs include gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, genital herpes, and human papillomavirus (HPV). These infections pose a comprehensive threat to health, affecting not only the reproductive system but also other body systems. Many STIs might initially be asymptomatic, making them difficult to detect and leading to delayed treatment and increased transmission risk.

The Relationship Between PID and STIs

PID is often linked to sexual activity, with a significant portion of cases resulting from sexually transmitted pathogens. Research indicates that approximately 75% of PID cases are related to sexual factors, such as having multiple sexual partners, early initiation of sexual activity, and not using contraceptives.

The most common pathogens leading to PID are Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. These bacteria can ascend the female reproductive tract, causing inflammatory responses in the pelvis. Symptoms of STI-related PID include lower abdominal pain, fever, tenderness in the affected areas, peritoneal irritation, leukocytosis, and elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate.

Chronic cases might present milder symptoms like lower abdominal discomfort or back pain, whereas acute episodes can cause severe abdominal pain, sometimes mistaken for acute appendicitis or ectopic pregnancy.

However, STIs are not the only cause of PID. Other contributing factors include abortion, intrauterine procedures, and childbirth.

Treatment for STI-Induced PID

Antibiotic Therapy

The primary treatment for PID is antibiotics. Doctors will prescribe appropriate antibiotic combinations based on the suspected pathogens. Patients should abstain from sexual activity until symptoms fully resolve and follow-up tests confirm the infection is cured.

Treatment of Sexual Partners

If PID is caused by an STI, it's crucial for the patient's sexual partners to undergo examination and treatment to prevent reinfection.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Patients might opt for TCM treatments, such as the herbal formula Fuyan Pill. This treatment promotes blood circulation, alleviates pain, and helps absorb and resolve inflammation in the pelvic region.

Preventing Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

1. Maintain Hygiene: Both partners should prioritize genital hygiene during sexual activity. Male genital hygiene is as important as female hygiene. Men should thoroughly clean their genital area, including retracting the foreskin for a complete cleanse before intercourse.

2. Regular Gynecological Examinations: Annual gynecological check-ups, including Pap smears, can help detect precancerous changes and identify infections early. This is particularly important since some infections, like HPV and HIV, can be asymptomatic in their early stages.

3. Eliminate Infection Pathways: Keep the perineal area clean and dry. Use clean water to wash external Instruments nightly, and avoid using hands to clean the inside of the vagina. Avoid using hot water or soap on the external Instruments. Minimize the need for abortions, and ensure surgical procedures are done under strict sterile conditions.

4. Practice Safe Sex: Avoid sexual intercourse during menstruation, after abortions, and following gynecological procedures. Vaginal bleeding during these times increases the risk of infection. Additionally, avoid swimming, taking baths, or using saunas during these periods, and change sanitary pads frequently to prevent bacterial infections.

5. Increase Physical Activity: Regular exercise boosts overall body resistance and helps maintain a good physical condition, effectively preventing infections due to a decline in immune defenses.