Salpingitis is the inflammation of the fallopian tubes, usually caused by bacteria, and can affect one or both tubes.
This condition is part of a group of disorders known as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). It can lead to abdominal pain, pain during sexual intercourse, abnormal vaginal bleeding between periods, and, in some cases, fever.
It is important to see a gynecologist as soon as the first symptoms of salpingitis appear. Early diagnosis and treatment, usually with antibiotics, help prevent complications.
Symptoms of salpingitis
The most common symptoms of salpingitis are:
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Pelvic pain, pain in the lower abdomen, or lower back
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Yellow vaginal discharge with a strong odor
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Pain or bleeding during sexual intercourse
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Vaginal bleeding between menstrual periods
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Burning or discomfort when urinating
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Frequent urge to urinate
Other possible symptoms include fever, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, fatigue, and delayed menstrual cycles.
In some cases, symptoms are milder but last longer. This is known as chronic salpingitis, which often develops after an episode of acute salpingitis.
Salpingitis and oophoritis
Salpingitis refers to an infection in the fallopian tubes, while oophoritis is the term for inflammation of the ovaries. Both belong to the group of conditions called pelvic inflammatory disease, which can involve the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries.
How diagnosis is made
A gynecologist typically diagnoses salpingitis by evaluating symptoms, performing a physical exam, and ordering laboratory tests.
A pelvic exam is often done to check for pain, tenderness, or bleeding in the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries.
Blood and urine tests may help identify infections, while cultures of vaginal discharge can detect gonorrhea, chlamydia, or other underlying causes.
In some cases, imaging tests are needed to confirm salpingitis, such as pelvic ultrasound, CT scan, or hysterosalpingography, which checks for blockages in the fallopian tubes.
Main causes
The most common causes of salpingitis include:
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Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as Chlamydia trachomatis (chlamydia) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (gonorrhea)
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Use of an intrauterine device (IUD)
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Gynecological procedures, such as childbirth, cesarean section, endometrial biopsy, hysteroscopy, or laparoscopy
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Having multiple sexual partners
There is also an increased risk of salpingitis when untreated genital infections spread to the fallopian tubes, as in pelvic inflammatory disease.
Treatment for salpingitis
Treatment for salpingitis should always be guided by a gynecologist and started as soon as possible to reduce the risk of complications.
Mild cases may be treated with a single antibiotic injection, followed by oral antibiotics taken at home for up to two weeks.
More severe infections may require intravenous antibiotics in a hospital setting before switching to oral treatment.
The choice of antibiotic depends on the infection’s cause. For example, doxycycline is often prescribed for chlamydia, ceftriaxone for gonorrhea, and gentamicin may be used for severe infections that require intravenous therapy.
During treatment, it is recommended to avoid sexual activity, not use vaginal douches, and keep the genital area clean and dry.
If salpingitis is caused by a sexually transmitted infection, sexual partners should also be tested and treated to prevent reinfection.
In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the fallopian tubes or other affected structures, such as the ovaries or uterus.
Does salpingitis have a cure?
Yes, salpingitis can be cured, especially when diagnosed early and treated with antibiotics. These medications eliminate the infection and reduce inflammation in the fallopian tubes.
If not treated in time, however, salpingitis can cause permanent damage to the tubes, increasing the risk of infertility or ectopic pregnancy.
Possible complications
Some possible complications of salpingitis include:
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Blockage of the fallopian tube: Infection can cause adhesions inside or outside the tube, blocking the passage of the egg
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Ectopic pregnancy: The fertilized egg may implant outside the uterus, usually in the tube
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Infertility: Damage to the fallopian tubes can prevent the egg from reaching the uterus, making natural pregnancy difficult
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Chronic pelvic or abdominal pain: Infection can lead to long-lasting discomfort
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Tubo-ovarian abscess: Pockets of pus can form around the fallopian tubes or ovaries, sometimes requiring drainage
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Spread of infection: The infection can reach other reproductive organs, worsening symptoms and overall health
Complications from salpingitis usually occur when the condition is not treated. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to protect the fallopian tubes and prevent permanent damage.