Salpingitis is the inflammation of the fallopian tubes that is commonly caused by bacteria, like Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. This inflammation may also be caused by the insertion of an IUD or gynecological surgery.

This condition can cause uncomfortable symptoms, like abdominal pain, discomfort during sex, bleeding outside of a period and fever.

Therefore, if you experience these symptoms, you should see a gynecologist promptly so that it can be confirmed and treated. Treatment usually involves the use of antibiotics.

Main symptoms

The main symptoms of salpingitis are:

Abdominal pain
Changes in vaginal discharge color or smell
Pain during sex
Bleeding outside of a period
Pain when urinating
Fever above 38º C
Lower back pain
Frequent urge to urinate
Nausea and vomiting

Symptoms of salpingitis tend to emerge after a period in woman who are sexually active. In some cases, symptoms may be persistent and prolonged, or they may appear every period. This type of salpingitis is deemed to be chronic.

Confirming a diagnosis

Salpingitis is diagnosed by a gynecologist through an assessment of the patient's signs and symptoms as well as an evaluation of lab tests. The doctor may order a complete blood count and a vaginal swab to determine whether the inflammation is caused by an infection.

The gynecologist may also order imaging tests, like an hysterosalpingography, which is aimed at visualizing the fallopian tubes and identifying signs of inflammation.

Common causes

The main causes of salpingitis are:

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), like chlamydia, and gonorrhea
Use of an intrauterine device (IUD)
Following gynecological surgeries
Multiple sexual partners

Another condition that can increase the risk for salpingitis is pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which usually occurs due to a genital infection that has been left untreated. The infection can start in the vagina and spread to the fallopian tubes, causing salpingitis.

Treatment options

Salpingitis can be cured as long as the treatment is carried out as prescribed by your family doctor or gynecologist. Treatment usually involves the use of antibiotics for about 7 days. Women are also advised to avoid any sex during treatment, even with a condom, and to also avoid douching. It is best to keep the genital area clean and dry to promote healing.

In more severe cases, the gynecologist may recommend surgery to remove the fallopian tubes and other structures, like the ovaries and uterus, that may have been affected by the infection.

Possible complications

Complications of salpingitis, like sterility, ectopic pregnancy, or a system infection, can occur when treatment is delayed or if treatment is not fully completed as prescribed.