Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a term used to describe an infection that affects the fallopian tubes, ovaries and the body of the uterus. This is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases in women. The age group at the highest risk is sexually active women from 15 to 25 years old.
Symptoms
There are sometimes no symptoms to be found. Symptoms that do show may include lower abdominal pain, vaginal odor, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, cramps, menstrual pain, irregular menstrual bleeding, heavy periods, nausea and vomiting. Other symptoms include fever, fatigue, painful intercourse, bleeding after intercourse, urethritis, abdominal mass, and painful urination.
Causes
PID is caused by an infection. The most common causes of pelvic inflammatory disease are Chlamydia and gonorrhea. These two causes, however produce the fewest symptoms. They are most commonly spread through sexual contact. Streptococcal, staphylococcal and E. coli bacteria may also be responsible, and are introduced through the placement of an IUD or after childbirth, when the cervix is open. Women who douche have greater risk of developing PID than women who don't.
Cautions
PID can lead to infertility, miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy if not treated. Hospitalization may be required if you develop pelvic inflammatory disease while pregnant. Left long enough, it can become life-threatening.
Herbal Treatments
Internal Applications
- Red raspberry leaf a tea or extract made from this herb can provide vitamin C and many minerals. It is a well known tonic for the female reproduction system.
- Echinacea this herb boosts the immune system and helps fight infection.
- Black cohosh use a tincture or powder of this herb as a tonic for the female reproductive tract.
- False unicorn this herb can be used as a toning remedy for the reproductive tract. Take the tincture as directed on the label.
- Cat's claw take an extract in a dose of 20 mg three times per day to treat inflammation and fight infection.
- Reishi mushroom take a tincture two to three times per day in 30 to 60 drop doses or you can take 150 to 300 mg capsules two or three times per day for inflammation and to boost the immune system.
- Dong quai take a tea of this herb to fight pelvic inflammatory disease.
- Turmeric take 500 mg three times per day to reduce inflammation. Use with bromelain to increase the effects.
- Calendula this herb is antimicrobial and can be safely taken along with antibiotics.
- Red clover this herb purifies the blood. Take as a tincture, tea, capsule or tablet according to directions.
- Roman chamomile this herb is anti-inflammatory and can help reduce inflammation in PID. Take this herb in tincture, capsule or tea form.
External Applications
- Castor use castor oil to make a warm pack. Pour the oil on a clean piece of cloth that is folded in layers. Warm it to a comfortable temperature and place on the lower abdomen for 20 minutes at a time. Cover with plastic wrap during the treatment. Repeat every day for up to a week.
- Tea tree use the essential oil vaginally to beat infection. You can find tea tree oil pessaries, or you can add a few drops to your bath.