Salpingitis complications. Chronic salpingitis: a barrier to motherhood. Symptoms and Signs

Acute inflammation in the uterine appendages can lead to dangerous complications. Purulent salpingitis with delayed diagnosis and untimely treatment becomes the basis for irreversible changes in the fallopian tubes and forms complicated forms of pyoinflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs. The main causative factors of suppuration will be sexually transmitted microbes. The main thing in diagnostics is to identify these microorganisms. Treatment involves a long course of antibiotic therapy.

Causes

A prerequisite for the development of a purulent form of inflammation is the penetration of microbes into the lumen of the fallopian tubes. Most often, germs enter the uterus and tubes from the vagina as a result of accidental sexual intercourse or frequent changes in sexual partners. Acute purulent salpingitis usually occurs against the background of the following bacterial microflora:

  • gonococci;
  • Trichomonas;
  • chlamydia;
  • mycoplasma;
  • viruses (papillomavirus, genital herpes);
  • bacterioids;
  • streptococci.

However, the presence of microbes does not always lead to inflammation. Of great importance for the development of salpingitis are provoking factors:

  • menstruation (throwing blood into the tubes during menstruation);
  • medical abortion;
  • the use of intrauterine contraceptives;
  • diagnostic studies and operations (hysteroscopy, hysterosalpingography, surgical interventions to remove the submucous myomatous node, endometrial polyp and endometrial hyperplasia);
  • complicated labor.

Acute appendicitis can become a source of infection: inflammation of the appendix creates conditions for microbes to enter the right fallopian tube.

Complications

Purulent salpingitis can cause the following diseases:

  • pyosalpinx (accumulation of pus in the fallopian tube);
  • pyovar (suppuration of the ovary);
  • tubovar (purulent tumor in the area of ​​the appendages);
  • abscesses of the abdominal cavity (accumulation of pus in different parts of the abdomen);
  • pelvioperitonitis (spread of infection in the lower abdomen);
  • sepsis (the entry of microbes into the bloodstream with the spread of infection throughout the body).

The fallopian tubes play an important role in the process of conception, so any purulent inflammation can disrupt a woman's reproductive function. Even when carrying out a full course of treatment for salpingitis, one must be wary of the formation of the following consequences:

  • tubal infertility;
  • ectopic pregnancy.

Symptoms

An acute purulent-inflammatory process in the fallopian tubes is manifested by the following symptoms:

  • pain sensations of varying severity in the lower abdomen;
  • severe pain during intimate life;
  • increased temperature with chills;
  • purulent vaginal discharge;
  • problems with neighboring organs (loose stools, pain when urinating);
  • weakness, palpitations, dry mouth.

The symptomatology is typical for the inflammatory process in the appendages, therefore, at the first visit to the doctor, the specialist will suspect acute adnexitis and send it for additional examination.

Diagnostics

The main studies that will help identify purulent inflammation in the fallopian tubes are:

  • laboratory examination (in general clinical analyzes of urine and blood, the doctor will see manifestations of an acute purulent process);
  • smears for infections and bacterial inoculation of vaginal leucorrhoea to identify the causative factors of purulent inflammation;
  • transvaginal ultrasound scanning (on ultrasound, the doctor will see a thickening of the walls, an expansion of the lumen of the tube and an accumulation of fluid);
  • endoscopic methods (with hysteroscopy, it is possible to reveal signs of inflammation in the uterus and pus flowing from the mouth of the fallopian tube, with laparoscopy - an edematous, inflamed tube with accumulation of purulent fluid in the abdominal cavity).

Usually, an ultrasound scan and bacterial culture results are enough to make a correct diagnosis to quickly start the correct treatment.

Treatment

The main goal of therapy for a purulent form of salpingitis is to promptly eliminate the focus of suppuration. If this is not done in time, then the probability of the spread of infection and the formation of dangerous complications is high. The optimal course of treatment, tailored for each woman individually, includes:

  • antibacterial drugs in the form of tablets or injections (duration of therapy is at least 10-14 days);
  • anti-inflammatory medications in suppositories, tablets or injections.

With a minimal suspicion of deterioration of the condition and the formation of a purulent focus (pyovar, pyosalpinx, abscess, tubovar), an endoscopic operation will be required. During laparoscopy, the doctor will confirm the diagnosis and ensure the outflow of the inflammatory fluid from the purulent tumor.

After the acute inflammation subsides, treatment should be continued using physiotherapeutic methods and resorption therapy. It is important not only to get rid of microbes, but also to maintain the patency of the fallopian tubes for the future fertility of a woman.

Salpingitis with purulent inflammation in the lumen of the fallopian tube occurs as a result of the entry of pathogenic microorganisms into the vagina, followed by the penetration of infection into the uterus. The disease gradually progresses, starting with a simple serous inflammation and ending with the formation of a purulent focus.

At the first symptoms of the disease, it is necessary to consult a doctor, do an ultrasound scan and start treatment. The time factor for treatment plays an important role: with late treatment, there is a high risk of complications, the outcome of which can be tubal infertility.

It is necessary to strictly follow the doctor's prescriptions, observing the dosage of drugs and the course of therapy in order to prevent deterioration of the condition in the fallopian tube. With the right approach to diagnosis and treatment, the chances of full recovery are quite high, and the possibility of conceiving and bearing a baby in the future is quite real.

If the diagnosis is chronic salpingitis, what is this disease, and how to treat it? It should be noted right away that this is a condition that requires urgent action. Otherwise, the pathology is complicated by infertility.

Why does the disease occur

Chronic salpingitis is an inflammatory process in the fallopian tubes (one or both). The main reason for development is the ingress and vital activity of pathogenic microorganisms into the fallopian tube, more often from the uterine cavity.

Due to the spread of pathogenic flora and its activity, cicatricial changes are formed on the mucous membranes of the tubes with the expansion of the cavity or the appearance of their obstruction (complete or partial), which over time can become a source of infertility.

In an acute course, cavities are formed in the cavity of the fallopian tubes, the contents of which are purulent or serous exudate. Over time, such neoplasms are transformed into abscesses, and can cause the spread of infectious pathogens to the abdominal region. In the latter case, the risk of developing inflammatory pathologies in the pelvic organs and the formation of an interintestinal abscess increases.

In most cases, the inability to become pregnant occurs precisely with chronic salpingitis. An acute disease is less often accompanied by such a complication.

Chronization of the process is observed in the following cases:

  • in case of untimely or inadequate treatment of an acute illness;
  • concomitant development of a sexually transmitted disease (trichomoniasis, etc.);
  • the presence of a contraceptive coil;
  • history of abortion;
  • miscarriage;
  • carrying out diagnostic procedures in the uterus.

Forms of the disease

Depending on the source that caused the disease, pathology is divided into 2 forms: nonspecific and specific. In the first case, development is affected by Staphylococcus aureus or epidermal staphylococcus, streptococcus, enterococcus, Escherichia coli, Candida fungus.

A nonspecific type of pathology often develops against the background of:

  • gynecological diseases;
  • birth trauma;
  • abortion with complications;
  • after intrauterine manipulations.

A disease of a specific form occurs when the body is exposed to gonococcus, Trichomonas, chlamydia, sexually penetrating. Chronic bilateral salpingitis in most cases has a specific form, and unilateral - nonspecific.

What symptoms occur







The disease in a chronic form proceeds with stages of remission and periods of exacerbation. In most cases, the acute course has a blurred clinical picture.

There are general symptoms that may be inherent in other pathologies of a gynecological nature and other etiology:

  • increased general temperature;
  • pain syndrome in the epigastric region;
  • general malaise.

For this reason, the disease is often diagnosed at an advanced stage of development or already during the chronicity of the process.

Pathology in a chronic form proceeds without an increase in the general temperature, like acute salpingitis.

She has symptoms such as:

  • persistent, persistent pain in the lower abdomen, which increases with hypothermia, fatigue;
  • violation of the menstrual cycle;
  • thickening of the fallopian tube, which can be detected during a gynecological examination.

With an increase in the activity of pathogens in the exacerbation stage, abundant vaginal discharge occurs, with or without a specific odor. A blood test shows significant abnormalities, while in remission shifts in blood cells do not occur. The increase in the intensity of pain occurs during intercourse and menstruation.

With the development of pathology against the background of a gonococcal infection, the urethra and uterine neck are involved in the lesion. With chlamydial infection, urethritis and endometritis join. At the same time, the general condition worsens, nausea, flatulence occurs, and irritability increases.

Symptoms for complications

If complications develop, secondary clinical manifestations join. In this case, qualified medical assistance is required.

Secondary symptoms include:

  • febrile syndrome;
  • a sharp rise in temperature;
  • hypotension;
  • tachycardia;
  • dizziness;
  • confusion of consciousness.

If it is untimely to start treatment with developing complications, the risk of peritonitis, a pathology characterized by rupture of a purulent sac, localized in the fallopian tube, in the abdominal region, increases.

Diagnostics

It is not difficult to diagnose chronic salpingitis. First of all, when alarming symptoms appear, it is recommended to consult a gynecologist.

The doctor will prescribe the following tests:

  • laboratory: blood test for the detection of antigen to hepatitis B, C, for HIV, examination of a smear taken from the vagina, cervix, urethra, for infections, urinalysis;
  • instrumental: hysterosalpingography is mandatory if a chronic form of salpingitis is suspected.

Ultrasound diagnostics for the detection of a chronic disease is not informative. If there is a suspicion of the development of a tuberculous type of pathology, appropriate studies are carried out at a tuberculosis dispensary.

If a chronic disease is detected, a smear is taken after "provocation". This can be a salty or spicy food intake before diagnosis. If pathological exudate has accumulated in the rectal-uterine cavity, puncture of the abdominal region is prescribed, performed through the posterior fornix of the vagina.

Differential analysis is performed with appendicitis, ectopic pregnancy, ovarian apoplexy.

Treatment

How to treat a disease that is chronic, only a doctor will determine. Self-therapy in this case is ineffective, moreover, it can cause irreversible complications.

Treatment is carried out only in stationary conditions:

  1. Prescribe drug therapy, which involves the use of anti-inflammatory and antibacterial drugs, as well as drugs with immunomodulatory effects. The latter help to increase the body's defenses, directing an active fight against pathogens.
  2. The duration of taking antibacterial drugs is up to 2 weeks, depending on the characteristics of the development of the primary disease. To reduce the risk of complications such as dysbiosis and candidiasis, antifungal agents are prescribed.
  3. If adhesions are present, the intake of enzymes is required (for example, this is Lidase and other drugs). Physiotherapy procedures help the adhesions to dissolve: magnetotherapy, ultrasound treatment, etc.
  4. If conservative therapy is ineffective, surgery is prescribed. As a rule, this is necessary for existing neoplasms with pus in the cavity, which are localized in the fallopian tubes.
  5. Of all the methods of surgical intervention, preference is given to laparoscopy, salpingotomy. During the operation, the patency of the tube is restored, which increases the chances of fertilization.

Salpingitis and procreation

Are the concepts "salpingitis" and "pregnancy" compatible? Of particular interest is the question of whether it is possible to become pregnant after surgery. In this case, with the surgical treatment of salpingitis, the chance of fertilization increases significantly.

After about a year, the possibility of relapse and re-formation of adhesions increases, which again increases the risk of infertility. With the formation of adhesions and scars in the fallopian tube itself, the chances of getting pregnant are reduced to 5-10%.

Conclusion

To avoid the appearance of negative consequences of the disease, it is important to treat an acute disease on time, which will avoid the chronicity of the process. It is recommended to visit a gynecologist at least 2 times a year.

Salpingitis is a disease that is accompanied by pronounced inflammation in the tissues of the fallopian tube. Pathology rarely occurs in isolation and is mainly combined with adnexitis and infectious pathologies in other organs of the female reproductive system. The process can be either acute or protracted. Chronic salpingitis is one of the most common causes of female infertility. In addition, the disease can be localized in one fallopian tube (unilateral salpingitis) or both at once (bilateral salpingitis).

The inflammatory process begins with the penetration of infectious agents into the fallopian tube. Due to the development of inflammation, the fallopian tubes overflow with blood and swell. In the future, there may be a regression of the process or its transition to a chronic form. After the inflammation subsides in the fallopian tubes, a viscous secretion is released, which helps to block their lumen, which becomes the main cause of infertility. With a chronic course, adhesions form in the tubes, it is not always possible to get rid of them even by surgery.

The causes of salpingitis are infectious agents, often of a bacterial nature, that penetrate the fallopian tubes in different ways. The main ways of getting the pathogen into the fallopian tubes:

  1. Ascending (through the vagina and uterus);
  2. Descending (through the intestines (appendix - on the right, sigmoid - on the left);
  3. Hematogenous or lymphogenous (from any organ);
  4. Due to surgical procedures (in particular, abortions, especially clandestine abortions).

By the nature of the infectious agent, salpingitis is divided into specific and nonspecific. The latter appears due to the ingress of microorganisms into the fallopian tube, conditionally pathogenic in nature, for example, E. coli, staphylococci, candidal fungus, streptococci and others. Specific salpingitis occurs when these types of infectious agents enter:

  • Tubercle bacillus;
  • Chlamydia;
  • Trichomonas;
  • Gonococcus.

In addition to the immediate causes leading to the appearance of salpingitis, there are also risk factors, the impact of which increases the likelihood of an infection (in particular of a non-specific nature):

  1. Decreased immunity;
  2. Genital pathology (non-inflammatory, for example, ovarian hypoplasia);
  3. Traumatic injury due to labor;
  4. Medical manipulations associated with the uterus (in particular, curettage, insertion or removal of intrauterine devices).

Clinical picture

Signs of salpingitis in the acute and chronic stages will be different. In advanced cases, the clinical picture becomes blurred, activating only at moments of exacerbation. The main symptom of chronic salpingitis is infertility. In the acute phase, the following symptoms are distinguished:

  • Pain in the lower abdomen (if left-sided salpingitis - on the left, if right-sided - on the right, in the middle, the pain will be localized with a bilateral lesion);
  • Irradiation of pain can be in the leg or in the lumbar region;
  • Vaginal discharge (character, smell and abundance depend on the causative agent of the infection);
  • Soreness and burning sensation during urination;
  • Unpleasant sensations (often painful) during and after sex;
  • General signs of the inflammatory process (fever, weakness, and others);
  • Gastrointestinal disorders (nausea, up to vomiting, diarrhea);
  • Various irregularities in the menstrual cycle (also characteristic of a chronic process and manifested by a delay in menstruation, discharge with an admixture of blood outside of menstruation, as well as spontaneous uterine bleeding).

If these symptoms occur, and even better much earlier, when the inflammation begins in the vagina, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Separately, there are such symptoms of salpingitis in women as:

  1. Hydrosalpinx. This process is characterized by the accumulation of viscous fluid in the lumen of the fallopian tubes, which later becomes the main cause of infertility.
  2. Piosalpinx. This concept characterizes purulent salpingitis and implies the accumulation of pus in the lumen of the fallopian tube. This condition is life-threatening, since when the wall of the fallopian tube melts, purulent contents are poured into the peritoneal cavity, and peritonitis occurs.

With the specific nature of the lesion, additional symptoms may appear that are characteristic only for a specific infectious agent. For example, gonorrheal salpingitis is characterized by a generalization of the process not only in the reproductive system, but also in the urinary system, as well as in the rectum. Chlamydial lesion, on the contrary, is erased, practically asymptomatic, but such an infection is much more difficult to treat.

Consequences and complications of the disease

If the symptoms of salpingitis are not detected in a timely manner and the treatment with the wrong drugs, complications of this disease may occur. These include:

  • Oophoritis. The concept is characterized by the spread of infection to the ovaries. A very common complication, and salpingitis rarely occurs in isolation without it.
  • Tubo-ovarian abscess. The inflammatory process in the fallopian tube and ovary (or both at once) is purulent. The condition is a direct indication for hospitalization of a woman and requires immediate treatment, as it can cause sepsis or peritonitis.

Long-term complications (the consequences of salpingitis, which do not appear immediately):

  1. Soreness in the pelvic area. Practically 25% women who have been ill and even completely recovered from salpingitis periodically experience pain in the lower abdomen. Its appearance is especially characteristic during sex, and there is also a connection between pain and the menstrual cycle.
  2. Infertility. The inability to have a child is associated with a violation of patency in the fallopian tubes. Chronic bilateral salpingitis most often leads to this condition.
  3. Ectopic pregnancy. With partial preservation of the lumen of the fallopian tube, the passage and attachment of a fertilized egg in the uterus may be disrupted. Due to the fact that the fetus begins to develop in the tube itself, it can rupture, which poses a high danger to life.

Diagnostics

To diagnose salpingitis, a comprehensive examination of the patient is carried out. It includes:

  • Inspection. There is a sharp soreness during the study. Also, palpation can determine the presence of an inflammatory infiltrate in the fallopian tubes. A decrease in the mobility of the tubes is noted in the chronic phase of the disease.
  • Clinical blood test. With salpingitis, general inflammatory signs are noted, which include an increase in ESR and leukocytosis.
  • Microscopy. Examination of smears under a microscope to identify the pathogen of a bacterial nature.
  • Sowing on a culture medium. It also allows you to identify the pathogen and conduct an antibiotic susceptibility test, which will help in further treatment.
  • ELISA and PCP. These methods are highly specific and suitable for difficult-to-diagnose pathogens. These include chlamydia, tubercle bacillus and gonococci.
  • Ultrasound diagnostics. Allows you to visually assess the state of the affected organ, and in the chronic phase - the degree of obstruction.
  • Laparoscopy. Allows through the incision in the abdominal cavity to get directly to the fallopian tubes. The research method is highly informative, but it is used only in severe pathology, since it is difficult to perform and is expensive.

Treatment

Treatment for salpingitis will differ depending on the stage of the disease. Treating yourself or using folk remedies is strictly contraindicated, since you can start the process so much that there will be life-threatening complications or incurable infertility. Therapy of the acute phase of pathology includes:

  1. Stationary mode, which consists in complete rest and limitation of physical activity.
  2. A gentle diet.
  3. Etiological drug treatment (often antibacterial agents, against protozoa - Metronidazole, fungal infection is treated with antifungal agents). The course of therapy is approximately two weeks, but it can be shortened or lengthened depending on the severity of the disease.
  4. Pathogenetic therapy includes non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, cocarboxylase, autohemotherapy.
  5. Treatment of salpingitis with antibiotics requires the additional prescription of probiotics that restore microflora.

When the severity of the process subsides, as well as for the treatment of the chronic phase of the disease, physiotherapeutic procedures are used:

  • Ultrasound;
  • Acupuncture;
  • Electrophoresis;
  • Water treatment;
  • Magnetotherapy;
  • Thermal treatment.

All techniques are aimed at elimination, which will improve the patency of the fallopian tubes. Also, therapy is aimed at relieving pain, which worries many patients even after recovery. Surgical interventions are also used in the treatment of salpingitis. The decision on the appointment of the operation is made individually, since the main factor is the woman's desire to have a child. A direct indication for surgical intervention is the appearance of neoplasms in the fallopian tube.

The standard of surgery for salpingitis is laparoscopy. It allows you to cope with any type of pathology in the fallopian tubes, does not leave scars, does not give complications and has a short recovery period. Within a few days after this therapy, a woman can be discharged from the hospital, and after a few months (preferably six months), she can plan a pregnancy.

Salpingitis, as an isolated disease, is rare, since the fallopian tubes, ovaries and uterus are anatomically and physiologically interconnected. If the inflammatory process spreads to the ovaries, salpingo-oophoritis (adnexitis) develops.

Simultaneously with salpingitis, or - inflammatory diseases of the uterus can develop.

Views

Depending on the nature of the course of the disease, on the type of pathogen and localization, the disease is classified as follows:

  • by the nature of the course, they are distinguished: acute, subacute, chronic, uncomplicated and complicated salpingitis;
  • according to the type of pathogen, there are: nonspecific (purulent) and specific salpingitis;
  • localization classifies: left-sided, right-sided and bilateral salpingitis.

Causes

Nonspecific salpingitis

Nonspecific salpingitis is caused by streptococci, staphylococci, Candida, or mixed microflora. It is characterized by unilateral damage to the fallopian tube. The impetus for the development of the disease can be gynecological pathologies, birth trauma, or intrauterine procedures. The gate of infection is the broken integrity of the uterine epithelium.

Specific salpingitis

The source of infection is gonococcus, chlamydia, Trichomonas, which enter the body during sexual intercourse. There is a high likelihood of illness in women who lead an asocial lifestyle, early sexuality, have sex during the menstrual cycle. Koch's bacillus (a mycobacterium that causes) causes salpingitis by entering the fallopian tubes hematogenously. Specific salpingitis is most often bilateral in nature.

Symptoms

The first symptoms of salpingitis are not always clear-cut. Most often, obscure, light and quickly disappearing pains in the lower abdomen are observed, less often - pains in this area can be stabbing and strong. These symptoms should be a good reason for seeking advice from a gynecologist. If you do not establish the cause of the pain and do not start to treat the identified disease in time, the woman will develop new, unpleasant symptoms:

  • the abdomen becomes swollen, and pain symptoms can spread not only in the lower abdomen, but also in the lower back and legs;
  • (bladder inflammation), burning and itching;
  • low-grade fever and chills, fever;
  • increased vaginal discharge with a pungent disgusting odor;
  • vomiting and nausea may appear;
  • increased fatigue and weakness.

Acute salpingitis characterized by inflammation of the tissues of the fallopian tubes, the formation of purulent fluid. Menstruation and intercourse can be very painful.

Chronic salpingitis can proceed practically without any symptoms. A woman may be bothered by slight aching and pulling pains. There is chills at low-grade fever, fatigue and weakness. Adhesion begins in the fallopian tubes, and an ectopic pregnancy may develop.

Purulent salpingitis... There is an increase in all symptoms, the temperature rises sharply, and abundant purulent discharge appears. Urgent hospitalization is required.

Bilateral salpingitis... Pain in both sides of the lower abdomen is added to the characteristic symptoms, and bloody discharge is possible. The likelihood of infertility is high. In advanced cases of the disease, surgical intervention is necessary - removal of the fallopian tubes.

Diagnostics

If salpingitis is suspected, a thorough diagnosis is carried out:

  • collection of anamnesis;
  • gynecological examination;
  • complete blood count (the disease is characterized by increased ESR);
  • PCR diagnostics, smear and microflora culture;
  • a syringe puncture of the vaginal fornix and the intake of fluid from the abdominal cavity for the differential diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy, tumor process or salpingitis);
  • ultrasound diagnostics is not very informative, ultrasound is indicated if an abscess or cyst in the fallopian tube is suspected;
  • laparoscopy with the introduction of a video sensor into the abdominal cavity and visual assessment of the condition of the tubes;
  • hysterosalpingography (X-ray examination) and hysterosalpingoscopy (examination with ultrasound and contrast agent).

Treatment

The method of treating this ailment depends on:

  • the general condition of the woman;
  • conditions of reproductive function;
  • the nature of the course of the disease;
  • type of infectious agent.

The acute form of salpingitis is always caused by a bacterial infection and requires the appointment of antibacterial drugs. A course of resorption and anti-inflammatory therapy is being carried out. Correction of hormonal imbalance is necessary.

The chronic form of salpingitis, characterized by immune shifts and impaired patency of the fallopian tubes, is treated in a hospital setting.

Complex conservative treatment includes resorption, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal and hormonal therapy for the prevention of dysbiosis. Vitamin therapy is recommended.

If conservative treatment is ineffective, it is possible to conduct a low-traumatic laparoscopy to restore the patency of the fallopian tubes. In advanced cases, surgical removal of the fallopian tube is performed.

During the period of remission, autohemotherapy, immunomodulatory therapy, physiotherapy: magnetotherapy and ultrasound are indicated. Good results are obtained by spa treatment.

Prophylaxis

Preventive measures to prevent the development of salpingitis:

  • compliance with hygiene standards;
  • the use of barrier contraceptives;
  • preventive visit to the gynecologist at least once a year;
  • timely access to a doctor when the first symptoms of a disease of the organs of the reproductive system appear.

Forecast

A neglected or untreated disease causes serious complications:

  • the infectious process extends to the abdominal organs and the pelvic region;
  • scars and adhesions are formed, which can lead to an infection of the fallopian tubes;
  • the risk of infertility increases;
  • the possibility of an ectopic pregnancy is significantly increased.

With the timely referral of a woman to a gynecologist and proper treatment of the disease, the prognosis, as a rule, is favorable: salpingitis is cured, complications do not develop, and the likelihood of conception increases.

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Salpingitis, salpingo-oophoritis or adnexitis is a bacteriological disease of the uterine (fallopian) tubes.

Inflammation can take place in one tube, it can also occur bilaterally.

This disease occurs quite often and has a greater number of complications in case of untimely treatment.

Salpingitis, at an early stage, causes inflammation of the mucous membranes of the fallopian tubes, and then affects deeper tissues.

The disease has several stages of development, each of which requires immediate medical attention to prevent serious consequences.

In severe cases, surgery may also be required.

Causes of occurrence

Salpingitis can occur for various reasons. Specialists identify 3 main reasons why this disease can occur in women: STIs, mechanical damage to the mucous membranes, inflammation of other pelvic organs.

  • STIs are often the cause of genital diseases, salpingitis is no exception. Cytomegalovirus , , , the most common sexually transmitted infections, which lead to the emergence of all sorts of diseases of the reproductive and urinary systems. This is due to their latent course, in which medical care is not provided on time;
  • Mechanical damage to the mucous membranes of the uterus and fallopian tubes, they can also be caused by:
    • abortion;
    • severe course of childbirth;
    • punctures and injections into the uterus;
    • endometritis;
    • instrumental studies of the uterine cavity;
    • installation of spirals.

Salpingitis can also occur due to inflammatory processes in neighboring organs:

  • colitis;
  • - inflammation of the ovary;
  • pelvioperitonitis.

Provoking factors that can lead to illness

There are a number of factors that can contribute to the onset of salpingitis. These include:

  • all kinds of douching that help bacteria enter the pelvic organs;
  • gynecological procedures involving the use of any instruments;
  • a large number of sexual partners;
  • a history of sexually transmitted diseases;
  • intrauterine device.

Symptoms

Salpingitis has similar symptoms with other diseases of the female reproductive system (see photo), for this reason, it is difficult to diagnose such a disease.

A distinctive feature is the presence of a very high temperature up to 40 degrees, severe chills, fever.

In this case, the following symptoms may be present:

  • severe pain in the lower abdomen;
  • with a tubercle bacillus, pain comes from the groin and sacral regions;
  • pain when urinating and defecating;
  • pain syndrome during sexual intercourse;
  • symptoms of intoxication: disorders of the gastrointestinal tract.

These symptoms are characteristic of the acute stage of the course of the disease. With untimely treatment, the disease becomes chronic. Chronic salpingitis causes symptoms such as:

In remission:

  • weakness;
  • low level of performance;
  • a feeling of discomfort in the area of ​​the affected tube.

With exacerbation:

  • pain and cramps in the lower abdomen;
  • unnatural in nature and having an unpleasant odor;
  • violation ;
  • discomfort during intercourse.

Forms of the disease

Salpingitis is usually subdivided into the following forms:

  • By localization - left-sided and right-sided.
    • Left-sided inflammation of the tubes occurs with pathological processes in the sigmoid colon, and pneumonia. In this case, the entire fallopian tube is affected. Swelling occurs and ulcers form. Then tissue atrophy occurs, an area with purulent filling and blood is formed.
    • Right-handed can occur if there is an infection that enters the tube by climbing or with appendicitis. The process is similar to left-sided salpingitis, but diagnosis is difficult, since the symptoms are similar to those of appendicitis or ovarian rupture.
  • According to the stage of the course of the disease - acute and chronic.
    • Acute form manifests itself in strongly pronounced signs and symptoms with a sharp deterioration in general condition and an increase in temperature to high levels.
    • Chronic stage has mild symptoms, discharge, a slight increase in temperature and constant pain syndrome. Has 2 forms: exacerbation and remission.
  • By the type of inflammatory process - serous and purulent.
    • Serous process consists in the accumulation of serous fluid in the cavity of the fallopian tube and is called hydrosalpinx. It is caused by streptococci, staphylococci and tubercle bacillus. It is characterized by: general malaise, watery vaginal discharge, pain in the lower abdomen.
    • Purulent salpingitis may be caused by gonorrhea. It can also lead to abortions, intrauterine devices, miscarriages. Mainly flows in one pipe. It is characterized by severe symptoms, high fever and severe pain, purulent discharge.

With the course of the disease in this form, immediate intervention of surgeons is necessary. Otherwise, inflammation can enter the abdominal cavity and lead to peritonitis. In case of untimely medical care, a lethal outcome is possible.

Diagnostics

To diagnose salpingitis, the following research methods are used:

  • collection of anamnesis - patient complaints, a history of STIs, abortions, etc.;
  • examination by a gynecologist;
  • Ultrasound of the small pelvis, in which thickening of the walls of the tubes, the presence of fluid, adhesions are diagnosed;
  • laparoscopic examination - a special apparatus is used for this, which is inserted into the abdominal cavity;
  • X-ray - a contrast agent is injected into the uterus and an X-ray examination is performed;
  • bacteriological examination of a smear;
  • analysis to determine the genus of the pathogen.

Treatment

The treatment of this disease is based on an accurate diagnosis of the disease. First, the doctor must establish what kind of salpingitis it is and in what stage it proceeds, and only then treatment is prescribed.

Treatment for inflammation of the fallopian tubes has three treatments:

  • medication;
  • surgical;
  • treatment with folk remedies.

The choice of the method is determined depending on the condition of the woman. If necessary, the patient is referred to a hospital, and in extremely severe cases, an operation is performed.

Drug treatment

It is mainly used to treat chronic salpingitis during its exacerbation.

To do this, appoint:

  • antibiotics, for example Doxycycline or Ceftriaxone;
  • anti-inflammatory drugs in the form of suppositories, for example, Terzhinan;
  • anti-inflammatory drugs of the general spectrum of action;
  • drugs that support immunity;
  • , which include vitamins C, E.

Surgery

Surgical intervention is carried out only with advanced stages of the disease, with purulent formations, with infertility or tumors.

During the operation, the surgeon removes areas with purulent formations, dissects the adhesions, which ensures the patency of the tube. If the disease is in advanced form, then a tubectomy (removal of the fallopian tube) is performed.

After the operation, it is necessary to exclude sex life for 2 months, which will guarantee recovery.

The operation takes place in 2 forms:

  • Laparotomy - consists in dissecting the abdominal cavity. Then the inflamed areas are removed, the adhesions are dissected, and the abdominal cavity is sanitized. After that, sutures are applied. This type of operation is performed if laparoscopy is not possible.
  • Laparoscopy is a type of surgical intervention in which an incision is made in the abdominal cavity by no more than 10 cm. A special apparatus is inserted through it. With such an operation, the doctor performs the same manipulations as with laparotomy, but this method is considered the most effective and less traumatic for the patient.

Alternative treatments

Alternative treatments can be used to get rid of salpingitis.

You can use recipes for treatment with folk remedies, but it is very important to remember that self-medication does not always lead to the desired result, and sometimes, on the contrary, harm.

Before using this or that remedy, you should consult your doctor.

Traditional methods of treatment

  • Wormwood roots will be required and the fruits of yellow cherries in equal proportions. Pour 1 liter of boiling water and add a small amount of dry white wine. Put the broth on low heat and wait until the volume is reduced by 2 times. After that, the broth is cooled. Take 75 ml 2 hours after meals.
  • It takes 100 g of anise fruit, which must be thoroughly chopped, 0.5 liters of honey. Consume in an amount of 1 tsp. 3 times a day.
  • Chamomile flowers are taken in equal parts, elderberry and flaxseed, which must be well chopped. Bring to a boil, then let the broth brew for 15 minutes, cool. Intended for oral administration.
  • Take in equal proportions chopped chamomile and linden flowers... Then pour water and bring to a boil. After that, the broth should be cooled to a warm state. It is used for douching. This broth reduces inflammation.

Cow's milk is also used to treat salpingitis. It must be boiled and used as a steam bath. In doing so, care must be taken to avoid burns.

They also use decoctions of calendula, oak bark, upland uterus, sage and linden for douching.

Plantain with aloe, cabbage with aloe, aloe with honey are used for tampons.

Nutrition

During treatment, it will not be superfluous to follow a light diet. Experts recommend eating foods that contain protein and easily digestible foods. For example:

  • boiled chicken;
  • beef;
  • a fish;
  • vegetables and fruits;
  • cottage cheese and all dairy products;
  • drink plenty of water up to 2.5 liters per day.

Prophylaxis

To prevent the occurrence of salpingitis, it is necessary to follow some preventive measures:

  • observance of personal hygiene;
  • use condoms for sexual intercourse;
  • visiting a gynecologist at least once a year;
  • if any symptoms appear, immediately consult a doctor;
  • treatment of infections of the reproductive system during;
  • avoid damage to the mucous membranes of the pelvic organs;
  • maintaining immunity;
  • compliance with all recommendations of doctors in the treatment of female diseases of the genitourinary system.

Complications

If symptoms are present and treatment is not timely, salpingitis can cause complications:

  • inflammation can spread to neighboring abdominal organs and organs of the genitourinary system;
  • the formation of adhesions, which causes obstruction of the fallopian tubes. To eliminate this complication, a surgical operation is performed; in difficult cases, it may be necessary to remove one or both fallopian tubes;
  • an increase in the occurrence of ectopic pregnancy;
  • infertility.

Forecast

If the treatment of salpingitis was started at an early stage and no serious damage to the fallopian tubes occurred, then the prognosis is favorable. If all the doctor's recommendations are followed, complete recovery occurs, and the patient's reproductive functions will not be affected.

If treatment was started late, the disease very often becomes chronic. In this case, the prognosis is not so favorable, since with this form of salpingitis it is quite difficult to cure.

In addition, with chronic inflammation of the fallopian tubes, various dysfunctions of the reproductive system occur, which can lead to infertility. And also complications are possible that will require surgical intervention.

A woman is a continuer of the human race, and if inflammatory processes occur in the genitourinary system, reproductive functions can be impaired.

Salpingitis is one such disease. In order not to lose the happiness of becoming a mother, it is necessary to seek medical help at the first symptoms. And also do not forget to visit a gynecologist and treat infections of the reproductive system in time in order to prevent inflammation of the fallopian tubes.