Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) Treatment in Gurgaon, India
What is Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)?
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is a serious inflammatory pelvic disorder that affects a woman's reproductive organs. It typically occurs when bacteria from the vagina or cervix travel into the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries. This results in inflammation of the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries, causing long-term reproductive health issues if not treated promptly. PID can be acute or chronic, and many women may not realise they have it until complications like infertility develop.
What are the Different Types of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)?
Acute Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
Acute PID is a sudden and severe infection of the female upper reproductive organs, typically including the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. It often develops as a complication of a sexually transmitted infection (STI), such as chlamydia or gonorrhea. The onset is rapid, and symptoms are typically intense and hard to ignore. These may include:
High fever and chills
Severe lower abdominal or pelvic pain
Abnormal or heavy vaginal discharge, often with an unpleasant odor
Pain during intercourse or urination
Irregular menstrual bleeding
In some cases, nausea, vomiting, and general fatigue may also occur. Acute PID is considered a medical emergency because the infection can spread quickly and cause irreversible damage to the fallopian tubes, increasing the risk of ectopic pregnancy or infertility. Immediate antibiotic treatment is essential, and in severe cases, hospitalization and surgical drainage of abscesses may be required.
Chronic Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
Chronic PID develops when an initial infection is inadequately treated or goes undiagnosed for a prolonged period. Unlike acute PID, the symptoms are often milder and may come and go over time, which can delay diagnosis and treatment. Common signs and symptoms include:
Persistent or recurring pelvic or lower abdominal pain
Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia)
Menstrual irregularities, such as spotting or heavy bleeding
Lower back pain
Mild but continuous vaginal discharge
Over time, the ongoing inflammation can lead to the formation of scar tissue and adhesions in the pelvic organs. This can result in complications such as tubo-ovarian abscesses, chronic pelvic pain, and infertility. Women with chronic PID may also experience emotional and psychological stress due to prolonged discomfort and uncertainty regarding reproductive health.
Chronic PID is more challenging to treat and often requires a longer course of antibiotics, close follow-up, and sometimes surgical intervention to remove scar tissue or drain abscesses.
What are the Signs & Symptoms of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)?
Women with PID may experience a variety of symptoms depending on the severity and duration of the infection. These symptoms often appear gradually but can also present suddenly in acute cases. Here are the most common signs:
Persistent Lower Abdominal or Pelvic Pain
Many women with PID report a constant, dull ache or cramping sensation in the lower abdomen or pelvic region. This discomfort can become more intense during menstruation, bowel movements, or physical activity. The pain results from inflammation and irritation of the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries.
Unusual Vaginal Discharge
PID often causes an increase in vaginal discharge, which may be yellow, green, or brown and carry a foul odor. This discharge is a result of bacterial infection traveling from the cervix to the upper reproductive tract. Changes in discharge should always prompt medical evaluation, especially if paired with other symptoms.
Pain During Intercourse (Dyspareunia)
Inflammation of reproductive organs can make sexual intercourse uncomfortable or painful. This pain is typically deep within the pelvis and can worsen over time if the infection spreads. Women may begin to avoid intimacy due to recurring discomfort, affecting their quality of life.
Fever and Chills
In more severe or acute PID cases, women may experience fever above 101°F, along with chills and body aches. These symptoms indicate that the infection is spreading and may have reached the bloodstream or formed an abscess. Immediate treatment is necessary to avoid serious complications.
Painful Urination (Dysuria)
The infection associated with PID can irritate the nearby bladder or urethra, leading to a burning sensation or pain during urination. This can be mistaken for a urinary tract infection (UTI), so proper diagnosis is essential.
Irregular Menstrual Bleeding
Women with PID may notice bleeding between periods, heavier menstrual flow, or spotting after sexual intercourse. This abnormal bleeding occurs due to inflammation of the endometrial lining and damage to delicate blood vessels in the reproductive tract.
What Causes Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)?
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease results from infections that travel upward from the lower genital tract—typically the vagina or cervix—into the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. These infections disrupt the normal protective barriers of the reproductive tract and lead to inflammation and tissue damage.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Sexually transmitted infections, particularly Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae, are the leading causes of PID. These bacteria can silently infect the cervix and ascend to the upper reproductive tract if left untreated. Many women do not initially show symptoms, which allows the infection to progress undetected until it causes PID.
Post-Surgical Infections
Medical procedures involving the uterus, such as intrauterine device (IUD) insertion, endometrial biopsy, or dilation and curettage (D&C), can introduce bacteria into the reproductive system. If proper sterile techniques are not followed or the immune response is weak, these interventions can trigger an inflammatory pelvic infection.
Childbirth or Miscarriage
During childbirth or miscarriage, the cervix dilates, which can allow bacteria to enter the uterus more easily. If proper hygiene and postnatal care are not observed, infections may develop and lead to PID. Women with retained products of conception or untreated postpartum infections are at higher risk.
Bacterial Vaginosis
An imbalance in the natural vaginal microbiome, known as bacterial vaginosis (BV), can also lead to PID. When healthy bacteria are replaced by harmful anaerobic bacteria, the risk of ascending infection increases. BV can weaken the vaginal defense system, making it easier for pathogens to reach the upper genital tract.
Risk Factors vs. Prevention Strategies for Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
Risk Factor | Why It Increases Risk | Prevention Strategy |
Multiple sexual partners | Higher chance of exposure to STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhea | Practice monogamy or reduce the number of partners; get regular STI screenings |
Unprotected sex | Allows bacteria to enter the reproductive tract directly | Always use condoms or barrier protection during sexual activity |
Being sexually active under 25 | Younger women have immature cervixes, making them more vulnerable | Educate on safe sex practices and promote early health checkups |
History of STIs or previous PID | Weakens natural defenses and may leave scarring in the reproductive organs | Treat STIs promptly, and attend follow-up appointments after PID treatment |
Frequent douching | Disrupts healthy vaginal flora and pushes harmful bacteria upward | Avoid douching; maintain vaginal hygiene with mild soap and water externally only |
Post-surgical gynaecological procedures | Invasive procedures can introduce bacteria into the uterus | Ensure sterile technique during procedures and monitor for post-procedure symptoms |
Use of intrauterine devices (IUDs) | Rarely, IUDs may introduce bacteria during insertion | Get IUDs inserted by a trained professional; attend follow-up after insertion |
Poor genital hygiene | Increases the risk of bacterial growth and imbalance | Maintain regular, gentle cleansing of the genital area and avoid irritants |
Diagnosing Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
Timely and accurate diagnosis is essential to treat pelvic inflammatory disease effectively and avoid complications like infertility or ectopic pregnancy. Healthcare professionals rely on a combination of physical examination, lab tests, imaging, and sometimes minor surgery to confirm the condition.
Pelvic Exam
Doctors perform a detailed pelvic exam to detect tenderness in the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries. They may gently move the cervix to check for cervical motion tenderness—a key sign of PID. This step helps identify whether the infection has reached the upper reproductive tract.
Cervical Swabs
Cervical swabs are taken during the pelvic exam to test for sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. Detecting these bacteria early helps doctors start targeted antibiotic therapy. Swabs are also tested for other harmful microbes that can cause PID.
PID in Ultrasound
Ultrasound, especially transvaginal ultrasound, gives a clear picture of internal pelvic organs. It helps detect thickened fallopian tubes, fluid buildup, or a tubo-ovarian abscess, which are all signs of an advanced inflammatory pelvic disorder. It is a non-invasive and widely used tool.
Urine Test for Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
A simple urine test can help identify STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhea when vaginal or cervical swabs aren’t possible. This test also rules out urinary tract infections, which can mimic PID symptoms. Urine-based STI screening is common in young women with PID signs.
Blood Tests
Doctors may order a complete blood count (CBC) and inflammatory markers like CRP (C-reactive protein) or ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate). Elevated levels often suggest systemic infection or inflammation. These blood tests support the diagnosis, especially in acute PID.
Laparoscopy
In complex or unclear cases, doctors may recommend laparoscopy, a minor surgery where a camera is inserted through a small abdominal incision. This allows direct viewing of the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes to check for infection, abscesses, or adhesions. It also aids in treating advanced PID.
What are the Treatment Methods for Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)?
Treating Pelvic Inflammatory Disease effectively requires a comprehensive approach combining antibiotics, possible surgical intervention, partner management, and supportive care. Timely treatment is essential to prevent serious complications such as infertility and chronic pelvic pain. Healthcare providers customise therapy based on the infection’s severity, symptoms, and individual patient factors.
Antibiotics
Physicians prescribe a combination of broad-spectrum antibiotics to target multiple bacteria that cause PID, including sexually transmitted pathogens like Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Treatment typically involves at least 14 days of oral antibiotics. Patients must complete the full course to fully eradicate the infection and avoid antibiotic resistance. Sometimes, doctors adjust the antibiotic regimen based on culture results or patient response.
Intravenous (IV) Antibiotics
Patients exhibiting severe symptoms, such as very high fever, severe pelvic pain, or systemic signs of infection, often require hospitalization for intravenous antibiotic therapy. IV antibiotics deliver a higher concentration of medication directly into the bloodstream, allowing rapid action against the infection. This method is particularly important when oral treatment fails or when complications like abscess formation occur, requiring aggressive management.
Surgical Drainage
In cases where a tubo-ovarian abscess forms and does not respond adequately to antibiotic therapy, surgical drainage becomes necessary. This procedure involves removing infected fluid collections from the fallopian tubes or ovaries to reduce pressure, prevent rupture, and control infection spread. Surgeons may perform minimally invasive laparoscopy or open surgery depending on the abscess size and complexity. Early drainage improves outcomes and helps preserve fertility.
Partner Treatment
Treating sexual partners concurrently is a crucial step in managing PID, especially when caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Even if partners show no symptoms, doctors prescribe antibiotics to prevent reinfection and further transmission. Counseling on safe sexual practices and abstinence during treatment is essential to break the infection cycle. This holistic approach reduces recurrence rates and community spread of STIs.
Rest and Hydration
Doctors strongly recommend rest during the treatment period to help the body heal and recover. Resting reduces physical strain on inflamed pelvic organs and supports immune function. Adequate hydration assists in flushing out toxins and maintaining healthy mucous membranes, which can help reduce symptoms such as fever and fatigue. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activity and ensure good nutrition during recovery.
Additional Supportive Therapies
Healthcare providers may recommend pain relief medication such as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) to manage pelvic pain and discomfort. Warm compresses or sitz baths can alleviate localised pain and inflammation. Psychological support or counselling may also be offered, as PID and its complications can cause emotional distress and anxiety, especially in cases involving fertility concerns.
What are the Complications of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)?
If Pelvic Inflammatory Disease remains untreated or is inadequately treated, it can lead to serious and sometimes irreversible health complications. These complications not only affect reproductive health but also have a significant impact on a woman’s overall quality of life. Understanding these risks underscores the importance of early diagnosis and proper management.
Infertility
PID often causes scarring and damage to the fallopian tubes, which are essential for the passage of eggs from the ovaries to the uterus. When scarring blocks these tubes, fertilisation becomes impossible, leading to female infertility. In fact, PID is one of the leading preventable causes of infertility in women worldwide. The longer the infection persists untreated, the greater the damage, increasing the risk of permanent reproductive loss.
Ectopic Pregnancy
The fallopian tube damage caused by PID significantly raises the risk of ectopic pregnancy, where a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, commonly in the damaged tube. This condition can be life-threatening if not treated promptly because the growing embryo may cause the tube to rupture, leading to internal bleeding. Early detection and treatment of PID reduce the likelihood of this dangerous pregnancy complication.
Chronic Pelvic Pain
Many women with a history of PID experience ongoing pelvic pain that can last months or even years after the initial infection resolves. This chronic pain results from persistent inflammation, nerve damage, or adhesions formed between pelvic organs. Chronic pelvic pain often interferes with daily activities, work, and intimate relationships, significantly affecting mental and physical well-being.
Tubo-Ovarian Abscess
A tubo-ovarian abscess (TOA) is a serious complication where a collection of pus forms in the fallopian tubes and ovaries due to persistent infection. If untreated, this abscess can rupture, causing severe abdominal infection (peritonitis), which requires emergency surgery and intensive antibiotic therapy. TOAs increase hospital stays and may cause permanent damage to reproductive organs.
Repeated Infections
Women who have had PID are more vulnerable to subsequent pelvic infections because the damaged tissues and altered immune response facilitate bacterial invasion. Recurrent PID episodes increase cumulative damage, raising the risk of the complications described above. Continuous monitoring and preventive care are essential to break this cycle.
Why Choose Artemis Hospitals for Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) Treatment in Gurgaon?
Artemis Hospitals offers expert, personalized PID diagnosis and treatment in Gurgaon.
Advanced imaging and lab tests ensure accurate detection and timely care.
The multidisciplinary gynaecology team provides effective antibiotic and surgical treatments.
Skilled surgeons manage complications like chronic pain and infertility.
Patient-focused care combines medical expertise with emotional support.
Emphasis on partner treatment and prevention to avoid recurrence.
Undergo Advanced Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) Treatment by Top Gynaecologists in Gurgaon
To book an appointment with the best gynecologists for Pelvic Inflammatory Disease treatment at Artemis Hospitals, call our customer care at +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp us at +91 9599285476. You can also schedule your appointment easily through our online patient portal or by downloading and registering on the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available for both iOS and Android devices.
Reviewed By Dr. Nidhi Rajotia (Goel)
Unit Head - Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Artemis Hospitals
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do you feel pain from pelvic inflammatory disease?
Women with PID typically feel pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis. The pain can be sharp, dull, or cramping and may worsen during intercourse or urination.
How long does it take for PID symptoms to appear?
Symptoms can appear within a few days after infection or take weeks to develop. Some women have mild symptoms that go unnoticed until complications arise.
Is pelvic inflammatory disease contagious?
PID itself is not contagious, but the underlying infections, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, can spread through sexual contact.
Who is at risk for pelvic inflammatory disease?
Sexually active women under 25, those with multiple partners, unprotected sex, a history of STIs, or frequent vaginal douching have a higher risk of developing PID.
Who is the best gynaecologist near me for PID treatment?
At Artemis Hospitals Gurgaon, our experienced gynaecologists specialise in diagnosing and treating pelvic inflammatory disease with advanced care and personalized treatment plans. Reach out to us to schedule a consultation with top specialists.
Which is the best hospital for PID treatment in Gurgaon?
Artemis Hospitals is recognised for its comprehensive women’s health services, including expert management of PID using the latest diagnostic tools and effective antibiotic therapies. Contact us to book an appointment with leading gynecologists.
What factors affect the cost of PID treatment in Gurgaon?
The cost of PID treatment depends on factors such as the severity of infection, required diagnostic tests (ultrasound, laparoscopy), hospital stay, and treatment methods. For a detailed cost estimate, get in touch with our patient care team at Artemis Hospitals.
Whom should I consult for pelvic inflammatory disease treatment in Gurgaon?
Consult a gynaecologist or an infectious disease specialist at Artemis Hospitals who are experienced in managing PID through accurate diagnosis and tailored antibiotic regimens.
Can pelvic inflammatory disease be completely cured?
Yes, with early diagnosis and proper antibiotic treatment, PID can be effectively cured. Artemis Hospitals ensures timely care to prevent complications and promote full recovery.
