Don’t let pelvic infections affect your sex life

Don’t let pelvic infections affect your sex life 

Dr Suman Bijlani, Gynecologist tells us more about it

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is a blanket term for any inflammation of the pelvic organs, and is commonly caused by infection of the reproductive organs, including the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix and/or vagina. Pelvic infections are becoming increasingly common and the complaint of 'white discharge' is almost ubiquitous.

Is vaginal discharge always unhealthy?
The vagina is a tube lined by mucous membrane whose glands secrete mucus for lubrication during intercourse. These glands get activated by erotic thoughts, foreplay and by the act of sex. So, it is perfectly natural, in fact, necessary to have a healthy amount of mucus-like discharge in preparation for the sexual act. In addition, at various times during the menstrual cycle, hormonal changes cause increased vaginal secretions around the time of ovulation and also a few days prior to the onset of menstruation, as also in pregnancy. This natural discharge is transparent colourless mucus, not smelly or itchy and does not stain the undergarments.

On the other hand, infective discharge may be thick or thin, white, yellow or greenish, foul-smelling and itchy. If vaginal discharge is accompanied by painful or burning urination or pelvic pain, the diagnosis is almost certain. These infections may be caused by various organisms: fungi (yeast), bacteria or protozoa. Depending of the nature of the discharge, accompanying symptoms and examination findings, your gynaecologist would be able to treat you with relevant antibiotics or antifungal medications. Feminine hygiene washes are available and are an important adjuvant to treatment.

Treat it right
Treat pelvic infections urgently as they may occasionally cause complications leading to infertility, chronic pelvic pain and heavy or painful periods. Needless to say, your better half had better be treated, though he may not show any symptoms. Tell your partner that undiagnosed infection can damage his reproductive apparatus, too! When both partners are not treated simultaneously,women suffer from 'ping pong' infections, where one partner keeps re-infecting the other and the cycle goes on. Other reasons for recurrent infections include low immunity (stress and unhealthy lifestyle patterns), repeated antibiotic usage and multiple sexual partners
.