$Unique_ID{BRK01066}
$Pretitle{Genitourinary System, Infections or Parasites}
$Title{Are There Other Complications From PID?}
$Subject{pelvic inflammatory disease complications}
$Volume{J-14, A-14}
$Log{
Figure 1*0007901.scf
Figure 2*0007902.scf
Figure 3*0008001.scf
Figure 4*0008002.scf
Figure 5*0008003.scf
Figure 6*0009001.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Are There Other Complications From PID?


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QUESTION:  I have just been cured of my second episode with pelvic
inflammatory disease.  Now, the "good news" from my doctor is I'm at greater
risk of having an ectopic pregnancy.  Why?  Are there other complications from
PID?

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ANSWER:  Unfortunately, with every episode of pelvic inflammatory disease,
(also known as salpingitis) your risk of ectopic pregnancy or other
complications grows.  PID may cause scarring and adhesions in your fallopian
tubes which leads from the ovaries to the uterus.  Normally, the fertilized
egg becomes implanted in the womb.  But it has to get there by traveling down
the Fallopian Tubes.  If it hits a scarred area, where the tube is narrowed or
sealed by adhesions, it just gets stuck, and the pregnancy develops outside of
the uterus (ectopic pregnancy).  A woman who has had one or more incidences of
PID may have a ten-times greater chance of ectopic pregnancies.
     Other frequent complications of PID include infertility, pelvic pain,
chronic PID, and pelvic abscess.  Should an abscess occur, patients should be
hospitalized and treated with triple antibiotic therapy.  If the abscess isn't
properly dealt with, there is a possibility of widespread peritonitis, and it
can be deadly.  Your best chances lie in frequent checkups, including pelvic
exams and cultures to avoid future problems.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
