What are the symptoms of pelvic inflammatory disease?
Disease description:
I have been feeling severe itching "down there" lately, which is very uncomfortable and something doesn't feel right. I suspected a gynecological condition, and tests confirmed it. I would like to learn more: what are the symptoms of pelvic inflammatory disease?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of the female reproductive organs within the pelvic cavity. Common symptoms include:
1. Lower abdominal pain: This is one of the most common symptoms of PID. The pain may worsen during or after sexual intercourse, during menstruation, or while having a bowel movement.
2. Increased vaginal discharge: Inflammatory responses within the pelvic cavity may lead to increased vaginal discharge, which may also have an unpleasant odor.
3. Menstrual irregularities: PID may affect the menstrual cycle, causing abnormally heavy or light menstrual bleeding, or intermenstrual bleeding.
4. Systemic symptoms: Patients with more severe disease may experience systemic symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, and loss of appetite.
5. Pressure symptoms: If a pelvic abscess forms, localized pressure symptoms may occur. For example, an abscess located in front of the uterus may compress the bladder, causing symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, and painful urination; an abscess located behind the uterus may compress the rectum, causing tenesmus.
6. Fatigue and decreased appetite: A prolonged inflammatory state may lead to general malaise, fatigue, and reduced appetite.
If the above symptoms occur, prompt medical attention is recommended.
