What Are the Symptoms of Chronic Salpingo-Oophoritis?

Chronic salpingo-oophoritis is a relatively common gynecological condition characterized by concurrent inflammation of the fallopian tubes and ovaries. This disease adversely affects many women, underscoring the importance of early detection—thus, awareness of its associated symptoms is essential. Typically, patients with chronic salpingo-oophoritis experience lower abdominal pain, increased menstrual flow, and may even develop infertility; therefore, it warrants serious attention. So, what are the symptoms of chronic salpingo-oophoritis?

Symptoms of Chronic Salpingo-Oophoritis

1. Abdominal Pain

Patients typically experience lower abdominal pain; however, the severity varies depending on disease progression. Most commonly, patients report vague discomfort, accompanied by dull aching in the lumbar and dorsal regions. Occasionally, they may feel pelvic fullness or a sensation of heaviness or dragging, which tends to worsen significantly with fatigue.

2. Menstrual Irregularities

The most frequent manifestation is menorrhagia (excessively heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding). This symptom may result from pelvic congestion. Chronic inflammation can induce uterine fibrosis and abnormal uterine positioning, thereby contributing to excessive menstrual flow. Symptoms often become more pronounced following sexual intercourse.

3. Infertility

Tubal damage may lead to obstruction, resulting in infertility—most commonly secondary infertility.

Additional manifestations of chronic salpingo-oophoritis include increased vaginal discharge, dyspareunia (pain during intercourse), gastrointestinal disturbances, and generalized fatigue. When such symptoms emerge following acute pelvic or genital organ inflammation, chronic adnexitis should be strongly suspected. On physical examination, the parametrial tissues may appear slightly thickened. If no palpable mass is detected, tubal patency testing (e.g., hysterosalpingography or saline infusion sonohysterography) should be performed. Tubal occlusion confirmed via such testing essentially establishes the diagnosis of chronic salpingitis.