: 
What is PID?
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a serious infection of the female reproductive organs, including the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. It is a major health concern in Kenya, with many cases reported annually. PID can lead to severe complications such as infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and chronic pelvic pain if left untreated.
Causes and Risk Factors for PID
PID is typically caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs), particularly gonorrhoea and chlamydia. These bacteria can spread from the vagina to the reproductive organs, causing infection. Less commonly, PID can also be caused by bacteria from the rectum or abdomen, or by normal vaginal bacteria that enter the reproductive organs due to certain procedures or infections.
The risk factors for PID mirror those for STI/STDs. These include:-
✔️Mutiple sexual partners
✔️Sex with a partner with mutiple partners
✔️ Lack of use or imporper, irregular and inconsistent use of condoms
✔️Age <25yr
✔️Lack of access to healthcare services for prompt treatment of STIs can contribute to the high no of PID cases in Kenya.
Signs and Symptoms of PID
Many Kenyan women with PID do not experience any symptoms. When present, symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include:
- Lower abdominal or pelvic pain
- Unusual vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odour
- Painful or irregular menstruation
- Pain during intercourse
- Fever and chills
- Painful urination
Severe symptoms that require immediate medical attention include:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- High fever (over 101°F or 38.3°C)
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
Diagnosing PID
Diagnosing PID can be challenging in Kenya, as symptoms are often subtle or non-specific. A healthcare provider will ask you for a detailed history, including sexual history. Tjis will be followed by a pelvic exam to assess for tenderness or swelling in the reproductive organs.
Laboratory tests for STIs, such as gonorrhoea and chlamydia, are also conducted.
Additional tests, such as ultrasound, endometrial biopsy, or laparoscopy, may be ordered to evaluate the extent of the infection and any potential complications.
Complications
Untreated PID can lead to serious complications in Kenyan women, including:
- Infertility: Scarring of the fallopian tubes can prevent pregnancy.
- Ectopic pregnancy: A fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, often in the fallopian tube.
- Chronic pelvic pain: Scarring and adhesions can cause long-term pain.
- Tubo-ovarian abscess: A collection of pus forms in the reproductive organs.
Prevention measures
To reduce the risk of PID in Kenya, it is important to:
- Practice safe sex by using condoms and limiting the number of sexual partners
- Get regularly tested for STIs, especially if sexually active with a new partner
- Avoid douching, as it can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina
- Seek prompt treatment for any vaginal infections or STIs
Treatment of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
PID is typically treated with a course of antibiotics in Kenya, which may need to be adjusted based on the specific bacteria causing the infection. If symptoms do not improve or worsen, hospitalization or surgery may be necessary to address complications such as abscesses or severe scarring.
If diagnosed with PID, it is crucial for Kenyan women to complete the full course of antibiotics and abstain from sexual activity until the infection has resolved. Partners should also be tested and treated to prevent reinfection.
