Are irregular menstruation and foul-smelling vaginal bleeding signs of PID?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am a 35-year-old married woman with two children. I used to have regular periods with a normal duration between each cycle. But I have had irregular periods with fewer days between the cycles for the last six months. And I noticed this during my previous period, which occurred last month.

Also, the bleeding had a foul and unpleasant odor. But I do not have any abdominal pain or itching in the vaginal area during these days. But one week after the periods, I have occasional pain in the middle part of my lower abdomen. In addition, I have been taking medications for my lung problem for the past two years. So, is it a sign of PID? If so, how to treat and cure it?

Please advise.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I went through your query and understood your concern.

It would be better if you could send me your detailed gynecological, medical, and drug history.

Which medications are you taking for lung problems? If it is steroids, it can disturb your menstrual cycles. But you have taken these medications for the past two years, whereas your period irregularities started six months ago. We need more clarity on the medication. However, I have a question: have you recently used any contraceptive pills?

Also, I suggest you follow the instructions mentioned below.

1. A Thyroid function test, complete blood count, cervical smear, transvaginal scan, and an outpatient hysteroscopic local examination need to be done.

2. Get a vaginal swab to check for any pelvic infection.

3. Kindly have a complete check-up and treatment of any health issues if you have one.

4. Take a 10 mg tablet of Norethisterone (synthetic progestin) from days 4 to 26 of every cycle for three cycles to regulate bleeding.

5. Have a healthy diet with lots of fruits, vegetables, and iron-rich foods like apples and carrots to reduce the chances of anemia.

6. Indulge in recreational activities, yoga, and exercise to have a normal BMI (body mass index) and maintain weight.

7. Maintain appropriate genital hygiene.

8. Use soft, comfortable cotton undergarments.

9. Try to use condoms to reduce the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases.

10. If the foul-smelling vaginal discharge continues, then after collection of swabs, take a tablet of Metronidazole (antibiotic and antiprotozoal) 400 mg eight hourly and a tablet of Doxycycline (antibiotic) 100 mg twice daily for seven days.

Kindly discuss the medications for lung issues with your specialist and request to revise the medicines so that they do not disturb your menstruation.

I hope this has helped you.

Take care.