ABSTRACT
Pelvic Inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of the Women’s reproductive organs which is commonly caused by Sexually transmitted bacteria which gets spread from the vagina to the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. The female reproductive system consists of Internal and external organs which create hormones and are further responsible for ovulation, menstruation and sexual activities. External genitalia protects the internal organs which allows the entry of sperm into the vagina. Menarche is the female’s first menstrual cycle and the normal menstrual cycle is divided into follicular and luteal phases and is more variable in its time course. In this article, we are going to discuss the causes and symptoms of pelvic inflammatory disease with its Ayurvedic aspect in detail.
INTRODUCTION
Untreated Sexually Transmitted Disease (STDs) leads to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease which is a serious condition caused by Chlamydia and Gonorrhea. Sometimes it leads to serious complications, as the bacteria first enter the vagina and cause infection, with the passage of time it moves to pelvic organs. It can be a life-threatening complication when it gets spread to the bloodstream. There is Pain in the lower abdomen and there is unusual discharge from the vagina. About 770,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with Pelvic Inflammatory disease each year. The complications which include Short-term complications are- Tubo-ovarian and pelvic abscess, whereas Long term Complications include Ectopic pregnancy, Infertility and chronic pain in the pelvis.
PATHOPHYSIOLOGY
- Infection of the upper female genital tract leads to inflammatory damage which results in Adhesions and total obstruction of the Fallopian Tube.
- This adhesion leads to the complete loss of ciliated epithelial cells with fallopian tubes resulting in impaired transport of the ovum so there is an increased risk of infertility and ectopic pregnancy.
- Sometimes this adhesion leads to chronic pelvic pain.
CAUSES OF PELVIC INFLAMMATORY DISEASE
- Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae are the main causes of PID (Pelvic inflammatory disease) due to unprotected sex.
- It can occur due to Untreated infections such as Bacterial vaginosis.
- Another Sexually transmitted infection known as Mycoplasma genitalium increases the risk of PID (Pelvic inflammatory disease)
- Other causes such as Abortion, Childbirth and various pelvic procedures.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
- High Fever
- Pain and tenderness in the lower abdomen, lower back
- Unusual discharge from vagina with different colors, texture
- Bleeding
- Chills
- Period cramps
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pain during intercourse
- Heavy menstruation
- Painful urination
- Tiredness
DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS
- Appendicitis
- Hemorrhagic/ Ruptured ovarian cysts
- Bacterial vaginosis
- Peritonitis
DIAGNOSIS
- Medical history
- Pelvic examination
- Vaginal culture test
- Blood tests
- Urine test
- Ultrasound
- Endometrial biopsy
- Laparoscopy
- Computed Tomography (CT)
- MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging)
- ELISA (Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays)
- CRP (C-reactive protein)
COMPLICATIONS
Untreated Pelvic inflammatory disorder leads to the formation of Scars and pockets of infections to develop in the reproductive system, which permanently damages the reproductive organs.
- Ectopic pregnancy- It is due to the formation of scar tissue in the fallopian tubes, which prevents the fertilized egg from getting implanted. It is life-threatening and requires medical attention.
- Infertility- Damage to reproductive organs which causes infertility
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Tubo-Ovarian Abscess- It is the collection of the pus in the reproductive tract. It is a life-threatening infection.
TREATMENT
- Antibiotic therapy
AYURVEDIC ASPECT
As per Ayurveda, it is due to an imbalance of tridoshas which is responsible for all health and health-related complications. According to Ayurveda Pelvic inflammatory disease is due to vitiation of Pitta and Vata doshas. As Vata doshas cause pain and difficulty during intercourse. Pitta vitiations are related to inflammation and a burning sensation. Due to the vitiation of Kapha doshas, there is a build-up of Ama (toxins) which gets mixed with blood and further reaches the reproductive system. Mainly Apana Vata is responsible for the management and the proper and undisturbed functions of pelvic organs.
CHIKITSA
The main aim of the treatment of pelvic inflammatory disease is to reduce pain and swelling and to control the aggravation of Pitta and Vata doshas.
1. Role of Panchakarma
It is helpful in expelling the vitiated doshas by shodhana (cleansing or expelling of doshas).
- Virechana- It is the best way to expel the morbid pitta to control the inflammation. When the vitiated Vata and Pitta are under control then the pain and inflammation subside. Virechana is administered after the Snehana and Swedana which totally expels the morbid doshas.
- Basti- Basti is medicated enema which expels out the morbid Vata doshas and supports- strengthens the tissues. All 3 types of Basti are beneficial: Kashaya Basti- decoction enemas, Sneha Basti- Enema with medicated oils and ghee and Uttara Basti- Enema are given into the uterus. Matra Basti- Small doses of oil and ghee enema are given which will strengthen the organs along with pacifying the morbid Vata and Pitta.
2. Shotha Chikitsa
It is the Shamana chikitsa which pacifies the vitiated doshas.
- After proper Aamapaachana, Agnideepana and Santarpana are done.
- Parisheka with Triphala Kwath
- Yoni Pichu (tampons with medicated oils)
3. Rasayana
It is used after Shodhana therapy which boosts the immunity in the body and prevents the progression of the disease.
Herbs Useful In Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
1. Lodhra
Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa) is helpful in all female reproductive systems and useful in pacifying the pitta doshas. Improves the health of women and is useful in the detoxification of the body. Lower the pH of the body and slow down the process of inflammation and increase the process of healing wounds. Normalizes irregular periods and is an astringent tonic.
2. Ashoka
Ashoka (Saraca Asoca) is helpful in balancing Kapha and Pitta doshas. It is helpful in strengthening the uterine muscles and reduces the discharge from the uterus. It relieves pain so balances Vata disorders and is helpful in regulating the composition of blood and provides stamina to females and prevents the reformation of calculi.
3. Vidanga
Vidanga (Embelia ribes) balances Vata and Kapha doshas, is helpful in abdominal colic pain and relieves abdominal distention. Manages the infestation of worms and has laxative properties. Helpful for skin ailments and is a good blood purifier. Improves the appetite and expels out the doshas from the body.
4. Vacha
Vacha (Acorus calamus) balances Vata and Kapha doshas, resolves Ama and improves the process of digestion. It is helpful in reducing weight and has a rejuvenative property which provides healthy and glowy skin. It has Anti-inflammatory properties which prevent the growth of bacteria and reduce inflammation thus providing relief.
Herbal Remedies For Pelvic Inflammatory Disease By Planet Ayurveda
Planet Ayurveda is a GMP- Certified Ayurvedic clinic which formulates various herbal remedies for the prevention of various health issues and relieves the disease of the diseased person. All the formulations which are made by planet ayurveda are free from any kind of additives, colors and resins. These remedies are 100% pure and are formulated under the strict guidance of M.D Ayurvedic Practitioners as the formulations did not cause any side effects. For the purpose of management of Pelvic Inflammatory disease, Planet Ayurveda provides many herbal remedies which we will discuss further in this article in detail.
Products List
- KAISHORE GUGGUL
- FEMALE HEALTH SUPPORT
- BOSWELLIA CURCUMIN
- CHANDRAPRABHA VATI
- ALOE VITALS
Herbal Remedies For PID (Pelvic Inflammatory Disease)
Products Description
1. Kaishore Guggul
Kaishore Guggul are herbal tablet formulation which is made by planet ayurveda using various ingredients such as Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), Indian Jalp (Ipomoea turpethum), Ginger (Zingiber officinalis) and many more. It is helpful in removing toxins from the blood and removes excess Pitta doshas, Balances the hormones and removes toxins from the pores of skin and lungs.
Dosage - 2 tablets twice daily after meals with lukewarm water.
2. Female Health Support
Female Health Support are polyherbal capsules which are formulated by planet ayurveda using Ashok (Saraca Indica), Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa) and Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus). It is helpful in supporting the healthy female reproductive organ and balances the hormones. Improves lactation and relieves premenstrual tension and irregular menses.
Dosage - 1 capsule twice daily after meals with plain water.
3. Boswellia Curcumin
Boswellia Curcumin is a polyherbal capsule which is made by planet ayurveda using Shallaki (Boswellia serrata) and Curcumin (Curcuma longa). It is helpful in supporting and maintaining healthy joints. Is rich in antioxidants and relieves morning stiffness.
Dosage - 1 capsule twice daily after meals with plain water.
4. Chandraprabha Vati
Chandraprabha Vati are herbal tablet formulation which is made by planet ayurveda using Shilajit (Asphaltum), Karpoor (Cinnamomum camphora), Chavya (Piper chaba), Pippali (Piper longum), Maricha (Piper nigrum) and many more. It is helpful in urinary tract infections and controls the burning micturition. Chandraprabha Vati controls excessive bleeding and balances the aggravated pitta doshas.
Dosage - 2 tablets twice daily after meals with plain water.
5. Aloe Vitals
Aloe Vitals is a single herbal capsule formulation which is made by Planet Ayurveda using a standardized extract of Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis). It is helpful in maintaining healthy skin and metabolism. Has anti-inflammatory properties which reduce and improve inflammation and blood vessels. Repair dull and damaged skin and remove toxins from the body.
Dosage - 1 capsule twice daily after meals with plain water.
Conclusion
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is an infection of the Women’s reproductive organs which is commonly caused by Sexually transmitted bacteria which gets spread from the vagina to the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. Untreated Sexually Transmitted Disease (STDs) leads to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease which is a serious condition caused by Chlamydia and Gonorrhea. About 770,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with Pelvic Inflammatory disease each year. According to Ayurveda Pelvic inflammatory disease is due to vitiation of Pitta and Vata doshas. Further, we discussed herbal supplements from Planet Ayurveda which are helpful in this disease without causing any side effects.
