Could I have PID??

For the last year I have been experiencing urinary symptoms. I was diagnosed twice with cystitis and given trimethoprim both times but the burning on urination continued even though my urinalysis has come back clear since. recently i have experienced yellow vaginal discharge on top of these urinary symptoms. i had a swab sent for analysis and this came back clear for yeast or bacterial infection. also clear was a urine test for chlamydia and gonnorhea (Gonorrhea).

i came off the pill 2 weeks ago to see if it was causing my symptoms but the last few days I have had a dull ache in my pelvic area on both sides and sometimes in my lower back to the right. i am in a monogamous relationship for 2 years now. i have never had any STD's, neither has my boyfriend. Could I still have PID??

[Elaine Brown, MD]

Hi!  

Given all the above information, I would say that my suspicion for PID is pretty low.
I would start to wonder about something like interstitial cystitis/ endometriosis at this point.

It is also important to know whether the burning on urination is while you are urinating, or when the urine touches the outside skin AFTER it passes through the urethra (the tube between the bladder and the outside world).

If the burning is caused by the urine touching the skin, that suggests a skin condition.

If the burning is occurring as the urine passes through, that is more suggestive of infection, especially if accompanied by frequency and urgency symptoms.

If you are concerned, you could always take a week worth of antibiotics (doxycycline)and see if symptoms improve.

Another question to ask yourself--do the symptoms come on after intercourse?  Some people get bladder infections whenever they have intercourse.

Hope this helps!

Best Wishes!

Dr B