Inflammation of the female genital organs- This is an extensive and very common group of diseases in gynecology. It includes a whole range of pathologies that affect all parts of the female reproductive system. They are divided into inflammation of the external and internal genital organs.
So it is customary to refer to the external vulva, large and small labia, vagina and cervix. And the internal includes the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, as well as their ligaments, which are an integral part of the female reproductive system.
Most often, women of reproductive age face the problem of inflammation of the organs of the reproductive system.
Since unprotected intercourse has been considered the main mode of transmission for a long time, inflammation occurs mainly in the sexually active part of the female population. The average age is 20-40 years.
It should be noted that the risk group for inflammation is occupied by girls and women with more than 3 sexual partners, in which case the incidence of pathology increases several times. The most common inflammations are vaginitis, cervicitis, endometritis, cervical erosion, and rarely adnexitis.
Inflammatory processes such as bartholinitis are quite rare. Very often, inflammation is associated with the presence of a sexually transmitted infection. Therefore, in the diagnosis and presence of pathology, one should not forget about this type of lesion. Among sexually transmitted infections, trichomoniasis, chlamydia and gonorrhea are currently leading.
Causes of inflammation of the female genital organs
As for diseases such as vaginitis, cervicitis, there are a lot of pathogens. These are not always specific microorganisms.
With a decrease in the body's defenses, conditionally pathogenic microorganisms can also show their pathogenicity, which are normally found in the female body, but immune forces do not allow them to show their effects.
These include mainly staphylococcus, streptococcus, fungi of the genus Candida, some viral particles. Of the pathogens, gonococci and others have their negative effect.
Factors contributing to inflammation
They will depend on the form of the process:
Symptoms of the disease
They can be completely different:
Forms of the disease
Firstly, I share all inflammation of the female genital organs for a reason that contributes to its formation:
- bacterial
- fungal
- Viral.
Also, these are the stages of development of inflammation:
- Acute
- subacute
- Chronic
- Latent.
Types of inflammatory diseases of the female genital organs
Vulvitis
This is an inflammation of the outer part of the vulva. It occurs in females, girls are most susceptible to this inflammatory process.
Moreover, the frequency of this inflammation is due to the fact that the vulva has an anatomically accessible location for the penetration of the infectious factor.
Currently, several options for the development of inflammation have been identified, among them an infectious non-specific cause, as well as specific inflammation and strophic damage associated with a lack of hormonal levels.
Symptoms of vulvitis:
This is an inflammatory lesion of the external genital tract -. Normally, they perform very important functions, they are aimed at producing mucus in the vaginal area, as well as lubrication to ensure a full-fledged act.
Consider this disease in more detail:
- The mechanism of infection is associated with the anatomical features of the location of the gland. This is due to the fact that the excretory duct is located in the vestibule of the vagina, so there is a wide access to the entry of microorganisms.
- There may be pathogens from the vaginal environment or from the surrounding area, due to the close anatomical connection with the rectum.
- In addition, in order for the pathogen to show its pathogenic properties, it is necessary to act on provoking factors that contribute to a decrease in immunity, mainly local. These include shaving with other people's tools or old blades, non-compliance with personal hygiene rules, wearing tight underwear, especially from synthetic materials.
- Inflammation is quite rare, mainly occurs at the age of 25 - 35 years, very often it can be combined with other inflammatory pathologies of the genital organs. Begins initially, as a rule, sharply.
The woman notes:
- The appearance of severe pain irritation in the area of the entrance to the vagina.
- She cannot work normally, it is difficult to sit down and sexual contact is impossible.
- On the labia, you can palpate the formation, the sizes can be different, from 2-3 cm to 10 cm, the consistency is soft at the initial stage.
- The skin has an elevated temperature compared to other areas.
If the inflammation is not cured at this stage, then later it becomes chronic or the development of complications such as cysts or abscesses.
When the disease turns into an abscess, the tumor has a dense texture, in most cases the size is large, the shape is round or oval, and in some cases there is a fluctuation. The general condition is disturbed, the temperature rises, signs of intoxication appear, sometimes it flows into a fever. Inflammation of the Bartholin's gland requires mandatory treatment.
This is an inflammation of the cervix. It is an intermediate site between the internal and external genitalia. At the same time, the mucous membrane is involved in the pathological process. Since the cervix is divided into two main sections - exocervix and endocervix.
On the outer sections, stratified squamous epithelium is predominantly located, while inside it is lined with a cylindrical epithelium. It is the inflammation of the cylindrical epithelium that is most dangerous, since the risk of its transition to the uterus increases.
Various factors can cause cervicitis, including bacteria, viruses or fungi. Of great importance is the presence of provoking factors that contribute to the development of inflammation.
For cervicitis, this is:
In most cases, inflammation of the cervix is asymptomatic. Therefore, it is often detected only when a woman is examined by a specialist.
Only in some cases is the presence of secretions from the genital tract. During a vaginal examination, redness of the mucous membrane, the presence of an enhanced vascular pattern, as well as focal defects of the mucous membrane are revealed. From the external pharynx, a discharge of a predominantly pathological nature appears, from creamy to purulent.
This is a pathological process that occurs on the outer part of the cervix. It is characterized by the presence of a defect in the mucous membrane.
This process can occur in women at any age, but the frequency increases in sexually active women.
The average age of this group is 18-35 years. This is due to the frequent change of sexual partners.
This pathology causes a particular danger when papillomavirus infection is combined with a mucosal defect.
The most dangerous types are 16 and 18, they can contribute to the development of the oncological process. In most cases, it is combined with inflammation in the cervix and vagina, and may be the result of this process.
It is usually asymptomatic. A woman will not feel pain due to the fact that the cervix is devoid of pain receptors, which means that inflammation will manifest itself only morphologically. It can only be manifested by the appearance of bloody or brown discharge, especially after intercourse.
It comes to light mainly at survey in mirrors by the gynecologist. You can see defects on the mucous membrane of the exocervix of the cervix, in this case the cervix will not be uniformly smooth and pink. Hyperemia, hemorrhages, mucosal defects, as well as signs of an old inflammatory process appear on it.
endometritis
This is an inflammatory process, which is characterized by damage to the mucous membrane of the uterine cavity.
The pathological condition affects the functional cells that are rejected during menstruation.
The process can have a different course, it is either acute or chronic.
The acute process has a bright clinic:
In the chronic course of the process symptoms are usually absent. The pain syndrome in this case has an erased course, the pain is slightly pronounced. It increases with physical activity, sexual intercourse, etc.
In the autumn-spring period, an exacerbation of the process may occur. The temperature in a chronic process usually does not rise, only in rare cases it is subfebrile.
It may also be noted latent, in which the clinic is very erased, but it is usually the most insidious, since there is a violation in the organ, and complications often develop, and treatment, as a rule, is not prescribed.
This is a common inflammation of the ovaries in a woman. It is a very dangerous pathology, since an untreated process leads to the development of complications. The risk group for inflammation of the appendages is young women, these are 20-30 years old.
The acute process begins to develop as a rule quickly:
Inflammation of the ovaries can spread to nearby tissues, which in some cases is complicated by salpingo-oophoritis, pelivoperitonitis, diffuse peritonitis.
During the transition from an acute process to a chronic, the pain syndrome becomes less pronounced. He begins to disturb a woman with an exacerbation of inflammation or in the autumn-spring period. This course of inflammation can lead to adhesions in the pelvic organs.
The menstrual cycle may be disturbed, it is prone to delays and the absence of the onset of ovulation. The latent course of inflammation leads to infertility.
This is an inflammatory disease of the reproductive system. It can occur at any stage of the external genital organs. This inflammation is caused by fungus of the genus Candida .
This is an opportunistic pathogen, which is normally found on the skin and mucous membranes, and in a normal state of immunity, inflammation does not occur.
Characteristics of candidiasis:
- For the development of the pathological process, the influence of provoking factors is necessary.. Among them are severe endocrine and somatic diseases, violation of lifestyle, hygiene and nutrition, as well as sexual transmission.
- Candidal inflammation is characterized by the appearance of severe itching and burning, which irritates the mucous membranes and skin. At the site of the lesion, edema appears in varying degrees of severity, which is also accompanied by reddening of the mucous membrane.
- For a woman, a similar symptom contributes to a violation of the general condition., there is a deterioration in well-being, the quality of sleep changes, and nervousness and tolerance to stress increase. Urination is manifested by imperative urges, pains and, in some cases, severe pain.
- Body temperature usually remains normal. It usually rises after the addition of a bacterial or viral infection.
- The main manifestation of candidiasis of the genital organs are abundant curdled discharge from the genital tract. Usually their color is white or slightly yellowish. The consistency is thick, with dense inclusions. It is due to this that they are called curdled, and the disease is thrush.
Infectious inflammation
- This is an inflammatory lesion belonging to the class of specific. It is caused by a specific microorganism belonging to gram-negative groups.
Characteristics of the disease:
- This pathogen is specific, affecting mainly the mucous membranes of the genitourinary tract. As a result, there is an inflammatory process that can affect all parts of the reproductive system.
- The causative agent is sensitive, so it quickly dies in the environment.
Inflammation is caused to a greater extent among females.
Symptoms:
Chlamydia
This is one of the specific inflammatory diseases of the genitourinary tract. Currently, this pathology is very common. This is due to the fact that the causative agent is chlamydia, an intracellular microorganism that is tropic to the organs of the genitourinary system.
It is resistant to environmental factors, is easily transmitted by contact, and is also poorly susceptible to drugs. That is why this inflammatory disease in many women leads to the development of complications. Among them, the most common are the adhesive process.
Chlamydia is most often detected in women aged 25-40 years. At the same time, these characteristics are associated with the fact that women are at risk for inflammatory diseases due to high sexual activity, pregnancy planning, as well as frequent visits to specialists with a possible diagnostic study.
Symptoms:
- Very often, chlamydia does not manifest itself in any way or the symptoms are mild. In most cases, this inflammation is detected only during an occasional examination for occasional pelvic pain or infertility.
- Sometimes a woman is worried about itching and discharge from the genital tract. Pathological discharges appear, they become liquid, almost transparent, sometimes accompanied by itching. Separation usually occurs in the morning hours, 20 to 30 minutes after waking up.
- With a long course, pain syndrome is detected, which has a mild course, increases with physical activity or sexual intercourse. Subsequently, it leads to complications such as ectopic pregnancy or infertility associated with chronic inflammation in the uterine cavity.
This is a viral infection of the organs of the reproductive system. The disease is caused by the herpes simplex virus.
There are several varieties of it, each of which causes damage to a particular department in the body.
In this case, there is a predominant lesion of the organs of the reproductive system, in particular, the external sections.
At the same time, it occurs in both men and women, but the fair sex is more susceptible to this pathology.
The age groups that have genital inflammation caused by herpes are also different, but the majority is 20 to 40 years old. Such a corridor is due to the fact that it is in this period that a person can have the largest number of partners and sexual life is very diverse.
Symptoms:
- The disease is characterized by involvement in the pathological process of the mucous membranes of the genital organs, as well as the skin.
- In this case, the appearance of bubbles that are filled with liquid contents, having a slightly yellowish color, is noted. The sizes of these formations are different, from a few millimeters to centimeters, this is due to the fact that they can merge. In this case, pronounced soreness, constant itching, and in violation of the integrity and burning are manifested.
- Subsequently, elements devoid of a protective film become covered with crusts and a bacterial process can join them. The general condition changes, body temperature may rise and intoxication may increase.
Consequences of inflammatory diseases
- One of the most common complications is the transition of inflammation to a chronic course.
- In addition, relapses of the process may develop.
- With inflammation of the cervix, a chronic process can develop with the further formation of a malignant process.
- The upper genital organs are prone to the development of infertility in women of reproductive age, as well as miscarriage and spontaneous miscarriages.
- In women, against the background of inflammatory processes, the menstrual cycle may be disturbed and menstruation becomes more painful and prolonged.
- With massive inflammation, a purulent focus may occur, which requires surgical treatment.
- When inflammation spreads to neighboring organs, there is a risk of life threatening.
Treatment
Vulvitis
- In girls, as well as with non-specific lesions, you can use the appointment of washing. These include good solutions with an anti-inflammatory effect, such as Furacilin, Chlorhexidine and or calendula.
- With severe inflammation, antibacterial or antiviral, as well as antifungal agents in the form of creams and gels can be used.
This type of inflammation requires, as a rule, the appointment of complex treatment.
- In the development of the process, it is required to exclude a viral lesion of the cervix. Tablets and local forms of drugs are used.
- With an accurate specification of the cause of inflammation, the remedies are selected taking into account sensitivity, and with a non-specific process, this inflammation is usually eliminated with the right treatment without problems.
- A woman does not need hospitalization in a hospital, as well as interruption of the work process.
Endometritis and adnexitis
These inflammations require mandatory and timely treatment due to the high risk of complications.
The mode will be selected based on the stage of the process flow:
- In severe conditions, hospitalization is required. Etiopathogenetic therapy is considered antibacterial or antiviral treatment. The route of administration is selected exclusively parenteral, only after the end of treatment, you can choose drugs in tablet form.
- In addition, it is necessary to carry out detoxification therapy. For this, blood-substituting and isotonic solutions are used in combination with vitamins.
- After the main course, anti-relapse courses are required. aimed at preventing the development of complications or re-inflammation.
- In the formation of a volumetric formation or the transition of inflammation to other organs with the development of a purulent process, surgical intervention is required with possible washing, removal of formations and drainage with the introduction of antibacterial agents.
Tactics in this case will depend on the stage of the inflammatory process:
- At the initial stages, this may be the appointment of anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics, as well as local antiseptics.
- With the development of a purulent process and the development of a delimited formation or the transition to an abscess, surgical intervention is necessary, followed by drainage of the inflamed cavity.
- The appointment of thermal or physiotherapy before opening the cavity is strictly contraindicated, as this can lead to a generalization of the process.
Inflammation of the genital organs requires the appointment of etiotropic therapy, these are antifungal agents. The form of drugs is selected based on the level of damage:
- With vulvitis it can be creams or solutions that have antifungal activity. These include a solution of baking soda, which is applied to the skin and relieves inflammation.
- With inflammation of the vaginal cavity you can use not only the form of cream and ointment, but the most effective and common are vaginal suppositories or tablets. These can be drugs with only an antifungal mechanism or a complex action (inexpensive or). In addition, in combination with local therapy, systemic tablet forms are prescribed.
Very often, candidiasis is prone to recurrence. In this case, even in the absence of signs of inflammation, a systematic prescription of funds is required.
Other diseases
- Treatment of inflammation caused is required after an accurate confirmation of the cause. To do this, it is necessary to select funds after determining the sensitivity. After treatment, it is necessary to carry out additional monitoring of treatment.
- This is a special group of diseases of the female genital organs. When combined with a viral infection, mandatory treatment of inflammation with the appointment of antiviral drugs is required. The surgical treatment of the inflammatory process is very popular. Among them is diathermocoagulation or cryodestruction.
Treatment with folk remedies
It is folk therapy that is widely used to cure the disease of the genital organs:
Prevention
This is a fairly broad concept that relates to gynecological pathology.
To prevent inflammation, you should follow a few rules:
- an inflammatory process in the pelvis, localized in the ovaries and tubes (appendages). The causes of the pathology are bacteria and viruses that penetrate the appendages, and the main provoking factors are hypothermia, as a result of which general and local immunity decreases. The disease is manifested by a variety of symptoms: from pulling pains in the lower abdomen and scanty discharge to menstrual irregularities and acute inflammation. Therefore, only a comprehensive diagnosis, including laboratory, differential and instrumental research methods, helps to make the correct diagnosis. The main link in the treatment is specific etiotropic therapy; outside the acute stage, prevention plays an important role. The disease also has other medical designations - adnexitis, salpingoophoritis (from a combination of the terms "salpingitis" - inflammation of the fallopian (fallopian) tubes and "oophoritis" - inflammation of the ovaries).
General information
Inflammation of the appendages can be both bilateral and unilateral, localized on the right or left. Currently, physicians note the widespread prevalence of the disease. Among patients, young women and girls under the age of 30 are more common, they also constitute the highest risk group. First of all, this is due to greater sexual freedom, a significant number of sexual partners, the use of COCs that replaced barrier methods of contraception, which significantly reduced the risk of pathogens entering the genital tract.
The insidiousness of the problem also lies in the possibility of inflammation of the appendages in an erased, latent form. The consequences of such a phenomenon are the most formidable - ectopic pregnancies, miscarriage, infertility. According to practicing gynecologists and scientific experts, inflammation of the appendages is one of the urgent problems of modern gynecology and requires the closest attention. In order to avoid severe, difficult to treat complications, in the present and future, every woman should undergo regular examinations by a gynecologist and inform him during the visit of all factors that cause anxiety or doubt.
Causes of inflammation of the appendages
The causes of the disease are viruses, bacteria and other pathogens that penetrate the upper sections of the female reproductive system (ovaries, fallopian tubes and ligaments) in various ways. The most common is the ascending route of infection. In this case, the causative agent of the pathology penetrates from the lower parts of the female reproductive system - the cervix, vagina, as well as from infected closely located organs - the urethra, ureters, rectum. Most often, in this case, the pathogens are Escherichia coli, gonococci, chlamydia, strepto-, staphylococci, fungi and their associations. A common cause of ascending infection is STDs (sexually transmitted diseases), poor hygiene, promiscuity, disrupting the normal flora and local protective immunity of the vagina.
The descending or secondary route of infection is much less common. This is possible if there is an acute inflammatory process near the pelvic organs, for example appendicitiscomplicated by peritonitis. Another rare way of spreading the infection is considered to be the hematogenous route (through infected blood). It is associated with incipient or developed sepsis. Also, the cause of hematogenous infection of the appendages can be genital tuberculosiscaused by a specific pathogen - Koch's bacillus.
Processes localized on the one hand are most often caused by pathogens such as Escherichia coli, streptococci and staphylococci. Wand Koch and gonococcus often lead to inflammation of the appendages on both sides. The infectious agent, penetrating into the mucous membrane of the fallopian (uterine) tubes by one of the above ways, is introduced into it, then quickly spreads to the adjacent serous and muscle fibers. Further, the process captures the epithelium of the ovaries and the peritoneum of the pelvis. With a wider lesion, including the ovary and the entire fallopian tube, the formation of a tubo-ovarian abscess is possible. The result of inflammation of the appendages are multiple adhesions that limit mobility, normal activity of the ciliated epithelium and the contractility of the fallopian tubes.
The main factors provoking the manifestation of adnexitis are hypothermia, stress, and other conditions that negatively affect the immune system. However, they do not act as the root cause of inflammation of the appendages and, in the absence of infection in the body, cannot by themselves provoke the onset of pathology.
Classification of inflammation of the appendages
The disease can have both acute and chronic course (with or without possible relapses).
The picture of acute inflammation of the appendages is characterized by severe symptoms. This is an acute pain localized on the side of the organ lesion or diffused throughout the abdominal cavity, radiating to the rectum, sacrum, back, a significant increase in temperature (38-40 degrees), discharge, including purulent. The data of laboratory tests show a pathological shift of the blood formula to the left with a sharp increase in ESR and an increase in leukocytes. Palpation when viewed on a chair reveals an "acute abdomen", a mechanism of muscular protection, strong tension. Common clinical manifestations of an infectious lesion are possible - vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, a drop in blood pressure and pulse, changes in the cardiovascular system, the appearance of symptoms of kidney failure.
Clinical signs of chronic inflammation of the appendages are pulling, sometimes intensifying, pain in the lower abdomen, a periodic slight or moderate rise in body temperature (up to 38 degrees), discharge of varying degrees of intensity and color. Signs appear and disappear cyclically, relapses last up to seven days. In half of the cases, a menstrual cycle disorder is diagnosed. Possible menorrhagia - menstruation with significant blood loss; metrorrhagia - bleeding outside the cycle, oligomenorrhea may develop.
Symptoms of inflammation of the appendages
Inflammation of the appendages has a staged course, both in the acute and in the chronic form of the disease. Symptoms and treatment at each stage are specific. The acute course, as a rule, gives a clear picture of inflammation, which can be tracked by pathognomonic symptoms of the disease at each stage.
The toxic stage is characterized by symptoms of intoxication of the body. Moderately elevated, high, sometimes very high body temperature (up to 40-41 degrees) is characteristic. Chills, bloating and soreness of the abdomen, dysuric disorders (impaired urination), dyspeptic symptoms (diarrhea, vomiting) are observed. On the part of the reproductive system, abundant discharge, strong, localized or diffuse pains are noted, bleeding is possible. Symptoms persist for 1-1.5 weeks, then the disease can move to the second (septic stage), complete recovery (with adequate therapy for inflammation of the appendages) or chronicity of the pathology (with partial triggering of internal immune defense mechanisms).
The septic stage is characterized by aggravation of symptoms, weakness, dizziness, attachment of anaerobes with the formation of a purulent tubo-ovarian formation with the threat of perforation. It is possible to further spread the inflammatory process to the organs of the small pelvis and peritoneum with the occurrence of pelvioperitonitis, which threatens the life of the patient.
Symptoms of inflammation of the appendages in the chronic phase in some cases are unexpressed. Dull, intensifying pains occur periodically, coincide with one or another phase of the cycle. There is a slight increase in temperature, menstrual dysfunction, problems in the genital area (painful intercourse, decreased libido, etc.), deterioration in general well-being and decreased ability to work. With long-term chronic inflammation of the appendages without treatment, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (colitis, etc.) and the excretory system (pyelonephritis, recurrent cystitis, etc.) can occur.
Complications of inflammation of the appendages
Peritonitis can become a formidable complication of acute inflammation of the appendages with untimely therapy. Chronic inflammation of the appendages is often complicated by infertility. Infertility of mixed origin, which is also caused by inflammation of the appendages, is very difficult to cure. This is due to the fact that hormonal dysfunction due to ovarian damage is associated with a decrease in the physiological function of the fallopian tubes (contractility, impaired activity of the ciliated layer) or their complete obstruction. Failures in the menstrual cycle, lack of ovulation lead to serious functional and anatomical changes in the female reproductive system.
The formation of infiltrates, a frequent consequence of chronic inflammation of the appendages, can be complicated by the development of sclerosis processes in the fallopian tubes. This is the main cause of ectopic (ectopic) pregnancy, the formation of painful adhesions. The spread of pathology to neighboring organs often causes the development of cholecystitis (acute and chronic), colitis, pyelonephritis.
Diagnosis of inflammation of the appendages
Instrumental methods for diagnosing inflammation of the appendages can be used: diagnostic laparoscopy helps to identify purulent formations in the fallopian tubes, exclude or confirm the presence of an adhesive process. The procedure allows you to combine a diagnostic study with therapeutic manipulations. With the help of X-ray examination of the uterus with the use of contrast - hysterosalpingography, the presence of pathological changes in the tubes is determined and their patency is assessed.
Treatment of inflammation of the appendages
Inflammation of the appendages in the acute phase is treated in a hospital with the patient observing bed rest, physical and mental rest, a diet based on easily digestible food, an adequate drinking regime with an assessment of the excretory function. The main treatment for adnexitis is antibacterial etiotropic therapy, depending on the diagnosed pathogen: penicillins, tetracyclines, macrolides, aminoglycosides, fluoroquinolones. If there is a risk of anaerobic infection, a combination of various groups of antibiotics is prescribed, for example, metronidazole (intravenously, orally) is added to the above drugs.
Conservative therapy also includes painkillers, drugs that relieve the effects and consequences of intoxication (infusion therapy). With a purulent complication of inflammation of the appendages, surgical treatment is used. First of all, preference is given to low-traumatic gynecological surgery - laparoscopic manipulations, evacuation of the purulent contents of the saccular formation by puncture of the posterior vaginal fornix with possible subsequent administration of drugs. With advanced inflammation, when there is a risk of purulent fusion, surgical removal of the appendages is indicated.
After leveling the acute signs of inflammation of the appendages, a course of physiotherapeutic procedures is prescribed: ultrasound, electrophoresis using Mg, K, Zn preparations, vibromassage. The same methods, along with etiotropic antibiotic therapy, are indicated in the treatment of inflammation of the appendages in a chronic form. A sanatorium rehabilitation treatment is prescribed, which promotes the resorption of the adhesive process and prevents the formation of adhesions. Resorts are preferred, where mud therapy, paraffin treatment, therapeutic baths and irrigation with sulfide and sodium chloride mineral waters are used as medical procedures.
Prediction and prevention of inflammation of the appendages
With timely primary treatment with symptoms of acute inflammation of the appendages and adequate therapy, complete clinical recovery occurs in about 10 days. Adnexitis in the stage of chronicity requires regular examinations and maintenance therapy, sanatorium and rehabilitation measures, systematic monitoring of the patient's condition.
In order to prevent the occurrence of recurrence of inflammation of the appendages, especially for patients at risk (using IUDs, having unsuccessful pregnancies and abortions in anamnesis), it is necessary to exclude factors provoking the disease - hypothermia, stress, sexually transmitted infections. It is recommended to use rational methods of contraception, in a timely manner to conduct a comprehensive adequate therapy for diseases of the pelvic organs, taking into account pathogens. A visit to the antenatal clinic at least once a year for a preventive examination by a gynecologist should become the norm for every woman who cares about her health.
Among gynecological diseases inflammatory diseases of the genital organs in women are the most common pathologies. Approximately 60% of women seek advice from gynecologists precisely because of the development of inflammation.
In addition, gynecologists argue that in fact the number of cases may be even greater, since inflammation sometimes has an erased form. Therefore, the woman does not go to the doctor. It is generally accepted that the increase in inflammation of the genital organs in women is associated primarily with a decrease, deterioration of the environmental situation, and changes in the sexual behavior of young people.
Causes of inflammatory diseases of the female genital organs
Almost always, the inflammatory process in the genital organs occurs under the influence of a number of different factors - thermal , chemical , mechanical . But the main factor directly affecting the development of inflammation is the influence of infections. Depending on which pathogen provokes the development of inflammatory diseases of the female genital organs, they are usually divided into non-specific And specific . The latter include , .
Nonspecific inflammatory diseases provoke a variety of pathogens: chlamydia , candida mushrooms , ureaplasma , mycoplasma , trichomonas , coli , Klebsiella , corynebacteria (gardnerella ) and etc.
Opportunistic pathogens
also play a role in the occurrence of such diseases. Most often, the transmission of pathogenic pathogens occurs during sexual contact, more rarely there is a household route of transmission. In order for inflammation of the female genital organs to be provoked by opportunistic microorganisms, certain conditions must be met. In particular, the vaginal microflora, which creates an acidic environment, prevents the entry and further activation of the infection of opportunistic microorganisms.
In addition, an obstacle to the spread of infection is the process of rejection of the endometrial layer during menstruation. Along with this layer, microorganisms are also rejected. And due to the plastic properties of the pelvic peritoneum, inflammation in a woman affects only the pelvic area.
A factor that protects against the risk of re-development of inflammation of the genital organs is also the use of certain oral contraceptives.
Distinguish active And passive spread of infection to the upper genital tract from the lower. The lymphogenous or hematogenous route is considered passive, as well as spread to the tubes and uterus, into the abdominal cavity through the cervical canal. Active spread of infection occurs with Trichomonas and spermatozoa.
Factors that contribute to the spread of infection
In the genital tract of a woman, the infection spreads more actively under the influence of certain factors.
The intensive process is facilitated by various manipulations carried out intrauterine:, scraping etc. With such procedures, an infection can get into the uterine cavity either from the vagina or from the external environment. Through the fallopian tubes, it gradually spreads to the fallopian tubes. An ascending infection very often manifests itself immediately after menstruation, the birth of a child, and surgical interventions that were performed on the organs of the small pelvis and abdominal cavity.
Also, its active spread is facilitated by the presence in the body of a woman of foci of chronic infection, endocrine disorders and metabolic processes in the body, poor nutrition, frequent emotional overload, hypothermia, etc.
Types of inflammatory diseases of the female genital organs
Depending on which area of the genital organs of a woman is affected by a nonspecific infection, a disease of the genital organs is determined. Subject to the development of inflammation of the vaginal mucosa, it manifests itself. This inflammation is diffuse and focal, it can spread to the vulva and part of the cervix.
If inflammation has affected the external genital organs, then we are talking about vulvitis
. This ailment can develop in a woman as a consequence of a mucosal injury due to scratching, abrasions, etc. An infection of the injured surface occurs. Sometimes diagnosed secondary vulvitis
, which is a consequence of inflammation of the internal genital organs.
Inflammation of the cervix is called, and the large gland of the vestibule of the vagina is called.
If the inflammation affects the inner membrane of the cervical canal, then the patient is diagnosed endocervicitis . - an inflammatory process in the inner lining of the uterus. The occurrence of acute endometritis is mainly observed after a difficult birth, abortion, curettage.
With inflammation of the uterine corpse, the patient develops salpingitis . The inflammatory process that affects the ovaries provokes the development oophoritis . Inflammation of the walls of the uterus is called myometritis , and the pelvic peritoneum - pelvioperitonitis .
Local therapy is carried out in the form of douching with acidic solutions in order to restore the normal microflora of the vagina. Also used for treatment Trichomonas , representatives , candles .
Symptoms of inflammatory diseases of the female genital organs
Female inflammatory diseases are characterized by the absence of a clear clinical picture, since they are characterized by a chronic course and periodic exacerbations.
For inflammation of the female genital organs, different symptoms are characteristic, both local and general. In the inflammatory process of the female genital organs, the characteristic symptoms are edema
, redness
And itching
mucous membrane of the vagina and vulva, pain during sexual intercourse, periodic pain in the lower back, changes in the nature of vaginal discharge. Possible disruptions in the menstrual cycle, difficulty urinating.
In the acute course of an inflammatory disease, a pronounced general reaction of the body is observed: body temperature rises, chills are observed. When analyzing blood, a change in the blood picture is determined. A woman notes an intense discharge of leucorrhoea, pain in the lower abdomen. If the process proceeds in a chronic form over a long period, the lesions of the reproductive system become less pronounced, but there are signs of changes in other systems and organs.
Consequences of inflammatory diseases of the female genital organs
In the process of progression of such diseases, a woman undergoes changes in the state of the reproductive system, as well as a general deterioration in the patient's health. Often there is a violation in metabolic processes, changes in the vegetative-vascular nature, shifts in the work of the endocrine system.
In addition, inflammatory diseases of the female genital organs provoke the formation of anatomical changes. A woman who has had inflammation of the genital organs may develop adhesions either develop obstruction of the fallopian tubes . The blood flow in the tissues of the genital organs noticeably worsens, the egg also matures with disturbances. Inflammatory diseases in gynecology sometimes lead to the formation of hemodynamic and trophic changes in the organs and tissues of the small pelvis. The process may be disrupted in a woman ovulation , as well as transportation of the egg, subject to a violation of the patency of the tubes.
Due to the transferred inflammation of the genital organs, a woman also manifests menstrual dysfunction, and an ectopic pregnancy may develop. Sometimes changes in the uterus and appendages are formed. Such serious pathologies in some cases provoke infertility. Therefore, inflammatory diseases in gynecology occupy the main place in the list of causes of infertility.
Most often, such an inflammatory process causes violations of sexual, as well as menstrual and generative function in a woman.
If the diagnosis is not established correctly and in a timely manner, the process may worsen and, as a result, respond poorly to treatment. That is why a woman must be aware that the earliest possible diagnosis and a comprehensive approach to treatment are a very important measure to prevent infertility in the future.
Education: She graduated from the Rivne State Basic Medical College with a degree in Pharmacy. Graduated from the Vinnitsa State Medical University. M.I. Pirogov and an internship based on it.
Experience: From 2003 to 2013 she worked as a pharmacist and head of a pharmacy kiosk. Awarded with certificates and distinctions for long-term and conscientious work. Articles on medical topics were published in local publications (newspapers) and on various Internet portals.
DEFINITION OF THE CONCEPT AND GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS
Inflammation (Greek - phlogosis; lat. - inflammation) is one of the most complex processes that occur in human pathology and are often the cause of many violations of the body's vital functions.
Inflammation is an important problem and subject of study in all branches of medicine and belongs to those phenomena, discussions about the essence of which have been conducted by physicians, biologists and philosophers for centuries. The problem of inflammation is as old as medicine itself. However, there is still no single idea of where the place of inflammation in biology, medicine and pathology is. Therefore, there is no exhaustive definition of this process yet.
Currently, most experts believe that inflammation is a protective and adaptive homeostatic reaction of the body to damage that has been formed in the process of evolution, consisting in certain changes in the terminal vascular bed, blood, connective tissue, aimed at destroying the agent that causes damage, and at restoring the damaged tissue, which, having become redundant relative to the stimuli that caused it, is transformed into a typical pathological process. The biological meaning of inflammation as an evolutionarily established process is the elimination or limitation of the focus of damage and the pathogenic agents that caused it. Inflammation is ultimately aimed at localizing, destroying and removing the factors that caused it, "cleansing" the internal environment of the body from a foreign factor or a damaged, altered "own" factor, followed by the rejection of this damaging factor and the elimination of the consequences of damage.
Being an evolutionarily developed protective process, inflammation at the same time has a damaging effect on the body. Locally, this is manifested by damage to normal cellular elements during the destruction and elimination of everything foreign. In this, predominantly local, process, the whole organism is involved to some extent, and, above all, such systems as the immune, endocrine and nervous systems.
Thus, inflammation in the history of the animal world has formed as a two-pronged process in which there are, and always act, protective and harmful elements. On the one hand, this is damage with a threat to the organ and even to the whole organism, and on the other hand, this is a favorable process that helps the body in the struggle for survival. In general pathology, inflammation is usually considered as a “key” general pathological process, since it has all the features inherent in typical pathological processes.
Inflammation is a typical pathological process that has evolved as a protective and adaptive response of the body to the impact of pathogenic (phlogogenic) factors, aimed at localizing, destroying and removing the phlogogenic agent, as well as eliminating the consequences of its actions, characterized by alteration, exudation and proliferation.
ETIOLOGY OF INFLAMMATION
Inflammation occurs as a reaction of the body to a pathogenic stimulus and to the damage it causes. Pathogenic, called in this case phlogogenic, irritants, that is, the causes of inflammation, can be diverse: biological, physical, chemical, both exogenous and endogenous origin.
Endogenous factors that arise in the body itself as a result of another disease include tissue decay products, blood clots, heart attacks, hemorrhages, gall or urinary stones, salt deposits, antigen-antibody complexes. The cause of inflammation can be saprophytic microflora.
With a huge variety of causes, inflammation, in its main features, proceeds in the same way, no matter what it is caused by and wherever it is localized. The variety of influence seems to be extinguished in the uniformity of the answer. That is why inflammation is a typical pathological process.
The development of inflammation, its severity, nature, course and outcome are determined not only by the etiological factor (the strength of the phlogogenic stimulus, its characteristics), but also by the reactivity of the organism, the conditions, the specific circumstances of its occurrence and development.
MAIN CLINICAL SIGNS OF INFLAMMATION
Inflammation is a predominantly local manifestation of the body's general reaction to the action of a pathogenic, extreme stimulus. To denote inflammation in any tissue or organ, use their Latin or Greek name and add the ending - it {- itis). For example: inflammation of the skin - dermatitis, liver - hepatitis, myocardium - myocarditis. At the same time, the entire organism is involved to one degree or another in this predominantly local process.
Local signs of inflammation
The main signs of inflammation have long been known. Even the Roman scientist-encyclopedist A. Celsus, in his treatise "On Medicine", identified the following main local symptoms of inflammation: redness { rubor), swelling { tumor), heat (calories) and pain (dolor). The Roman physician and naturalist K. Galen, to the four signs of inflammation identified by A. Celsus, added the fifth - dysfunction (functio laesa). These symptoms, characteristic of acute inflammation of the external integument, have been known for more than 2000 years, and have not lost their significance today. Over time, only their explanation has changed. These five signs have stood the test of time and received modern pathophysiological and pathomorphological characteristics.
Redness- a bright clinical sign of inflammation, associated with the expansion of arterioles, the development of arterial hyperemia and the "arterialization" of venous blood in the focus of inflammation.
Swelling in inflammation, it is due to an increase in the blood supply to the tissue, the formation of an infiltrate due to the development of exudation and edema, and swelling of tissue elements.
Heat develops as a result of an increased influx of warm arterial blood, as well as as a result of the activation of metabolism, increased heat production and heat transfer in the focus of inflammation.
Pain occurs as a result of irritation of the endings of sensory nerves by various biologically active substances (histamine, serotonin, bradykinin, some prostaglandins, etc.), a shift in the pH of the internal environment to the acid side, mechanical compression of nerve fiber receptors by inflammatory edema.
Impaired function on the basis of inflammation occurs, as a rule, always; sometimes it may be limited to the dysfunction of the affected tissue, but more often the whole organism suffers, especially when inflammation occurs in vital organs. Violation of the function of the inflamed organ is associated with structural damage, the development of pain, and a disorder of its neuroendocrine regulation.
In chronic inflammation and inflammation of the internal organs, some of these signs may be absent.
If you notice these five signs of inflammation in yourself, you urgently need to see a doctor.
The inflammatory process is a serious pathology that cannot be treated on its own.
From a young age in the office of an uncle or aunt in a white coat, a frightened child hears these strange words: rhinitis, sinusitis, or, for example, tonsillitis. With age, mysterious diagnoses with the ending "it" are added to the medical record of almost every person. Did you know that all these "its" mean one thing: inflammation of one or another organ. The doctor says nephritis means that the kidneys have caught a cold, arthritis means your joint hurts. Absolutely every structure in the human body can be affected by the inflammatory process. And your body starts to tell you about it quite early and actively.
Five signs of inflammation were identified in ancient times, when not only special medical devices for diagnostics did not exist, but even a simple blood test was out of the question.
Knowing these five characteristic signs of inflammation, you too can determine your disease without any additional methods:
1. Tumor - swelling
Any inflammatory process in the human body begins with the penetration of a provoking agent into it. It can be a bacterium, a virus, a foreign body, a chemical, or another "provocateur". The body immediately reacts to an unexpected guest, sending its guards to him - leukocyte cells, which are completely unhappy with him and instantly join the battle. In the place of accumulation of exudate, an infiltrate is formed. In the area of the inflammatory process, you will definitely see swelling.
2. Rubor - redness
As a result of the death of damaged cells in the body, special substances are released - inflammatory mediators. First of all, the blood vessels located in the surrounding tissues react to them. To slow down the flow of blood, they expand, fill with blood and the result is the appearance of redness. Thus, redness is another characteristic sign of inflammation.
3. Calor - temperature increase
Vasodilation is an indispensable component of any inflammatory process, also because it must be cleaned up on the battlefield. The blood flow brings oxygen and the necessary building materials to the site of inflammation, and takes away all the decay products. As a result of such active work in the area of inflammation, it becomes very hot. The third mandatory sign of inflammation is fever.
4. Dolor - pain
The fact that somewhere in the body there is an active fight against the pest must be communicated to the brain, and the best way to do this is some kind of bright and expressive signal. To do this, in almost every part of our body there are special bells - nerve endings. Pain is the best signal for the brain, as a result of which a person understands that something is going wrong in a certain area of his body.
5. Functio laesa - dysfunction
The above signs of inflammation in total give another important symptom of this pathological process - dysfunction of the affected structure.In a combat area, life cannot continue in the usual way. Therefore, inflammation is always accompanied by functional insufficiency of the affected organ. In some cases, this can be very dangerous for the body, for example, in inflammatory processes of the heart, kidneys or other vital organs.
If you notice these five signs of inflammation in yourself, you urgently need to see a doctor.
Remember that the inflammatory process is a serious pathology that cannot be treated on its own. Consultation with a qualified specialist and the selection of an effective treatment regimen will help your body become a winner in the battle against inflammation.published