Pelvic Inflammatory Disease 

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) refers to the inflammation of the female reproductive tract, especially the fallopian tubes. It is primarily caused by sexually transmitted diseases and occurs more frequently in women using intrauterine devices. PID is a leading cause of female sterility.

Infection of the upper genital tract is termed Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, which can be chronic or acute. PID is part of the extensive differential diagnosis of lower abdominal pain in sexually active women.

The likelihood of PID increases with symptoms such as dyspareunia, abnormal vaginal discharge, or bleeding, accompanied by acute or subacute pain. Fever and malaise may also be present as extensive features.

Acute Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Clinically, acute salpingitis is the most important type of PID. It involves acute inflammation of the fallopian tubes. Other acute conditions include endometritis, oophoritis, pelvic peritonitis, and pelvic cellulitis.

Etiology and Bacteriology of PID:

• Endogenous enteric bacteria from the vagina.
• Anaerobes: Including Streptococci, Clostridium sp., E. Coli, Klebsiella.
• Exogenous bacteria from outside sources such as instruments, operators, or the environment.
• Sexually transmitted diseases: Chlamydia trachomatis, Gonococci.

Symptoms:

Symptoms of PID include unpleasant vaginal discharge, painful sexual intercourse, right abdominal pain, fever with rigor, increased menstrual cramps, chills, nausea, fatigue, painful urination, loss of appetite, moderate lower abdominal pain, and leukorrhea.

Signs:

Signs of PID include tenderness in the lower abdomen and a rise in temperature.

Herbs to Treat PID:

• For painful urination in PID, herbs like Gokshur (Tribulus terrestris), Punarnava (Boerhaavia diffusa), and Aamalki (Emblic Myrobalan) can be used. Supplements containing these herbs are also beneficial.
• Echinacea and olive leaf extract can help boost immunity and possess antibacterial properties.
• Herbs such as yellow dock root, walnut bark, oak bark, comfrey, and marshmallow are useful in treating PID.
• Turmeric (Curcuma longa) and Bromelain can help relieve inflammation.
• Red Raspberry leaf extract is rich in vitamin C and acts as a tonic for the female reproductive system.

Natural Remedies for PID:

• Initially, take antibiotic medicine for PID and only resume sexual activity when the pain subsides entirely.
• Consume foods rich in beta-carotene such as sweet potatoes, pumpkin, and spinach.
• Garlic contains Allicin, acting as a powerful natural antibiotic.
• Castor oil massage on the pelvic region can ease pain.
• Drink 6 to 8 glasses of filtered water daily and consume grapefruit seed extract for its antioxidant activity.
• Avoid white bread, pastas, sugar alcohol, and tobacco. Quit smoking.

While some natural home remedies are mentioned with quantities, it's advisable to consult an Ayurvedic physician for proper guidance before use.