Expert: Shan Yi Sheng - 2/11/2010

Question
About 1 week after my abortion I was having lower back pain and red/brown discharge that smelled really bad. i didn't think that put me at risk for PID but now I'm getting worried because I began cramping more.

About 2 weeks (2 days from two weeks) I had protected sex with my boyfriend. My cramping and back pain worsened after this and now i'm worried i might be at risk for PID.

I've schedules a doctors visit but I'm wondering how long does it take for PID to ravage your reproductive organs? Am i at high risk for infertility?

Answer
Hi Jen,

The doc who performed the abortion should have told you not to put anything in your vagina
until 3 weeks after the abortion.
I would certainly prescribe you antibiotics.
Protected sex id no sterile sex.
The complications from a PID can be bad and quickly. There is no certainty about how long it takes to close your tubes or cause infertility. That depends on personal factors.
Hurry with the antibiotics and keep your fingers crossed.
Bests,
Dr Shan.