Gynecologists and pelvic inflammatory disease: do we actually know what to do? Original paper
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Women’s Health
Women’s Health
Women’s health, a vital aspect of medical science, encompasses various conditions unique to women’s physiological makeup. Historically, women were often excluded from clinical research, leading to a gap in understanding the intricacies of women’s health needs. However, recent advancements have highlighted the significant role that the microbiome plays in these conditions, offering new insights and potential therapies. MicrobiomeSignatures.com is at the forefront of exploring the microbiome signature of each of these conditions to unravel the etiology of these diseases and develop targeted microbiome therapies.
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Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is a complex interplay between pathogens, immune responses, and microbial communities. As research continues to uncover the microbiome's role in reproductive health, microbiome-targeted interventions (MBTIs) such as probiotics, prebiotics, and transplants are redefining how we prevent and treat PID. This page dives deep into these innovations, offering a glimpse into the future of personalized, biologically informed women’s healthcare.
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Divine Aleru
I am a biochemist with a deep curiosity for the human microbiome and how it shapes human health, and I enjoy making microbiome science more accessible through research and writing. With 2 years experience in microbiome research, I have curated microbiome studies, analyzed microbial signatures, and now focus on interventions as a Microbiome Signatures and Interventions Research Coordinator.
Microbiome Signatures identifies and validates condition-specific microbiome shifts and interventions to accelerate clinical translation. Our multidisciplinary team supports clinicians, researchers, and innovators in turning microbiome science into actionable medicine.
I am a biochemist with a deep curiosity for the human microbiome and how it shapes human health, and I enjoy making microbiome science more accessible through research and writing. With 2 years experience in microbiome research, I have curated microbiome studies, analyzed microbial signatures, and now focus on interventions as a Microbiome Signatures and Interventions Research Coordinator.
What was studied?
This observational cross-sectional study aimed to assess the knowledge, awareness, and clinical practice of Jordanian gynecologists concerning Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). Researchers evaluated gynecologists’ understanding of PID diagnosis, treatment, and management through an online questionnaire involving 172 gynecologists practicing in Jordan. The study specifically examined gynecologists’ awareness of PID’s clinical presentation, diagnostic investigations, therapeutic strategies, and the perceived prevalence and implications of PID within the Jordanian cultural context.
Who was studied?
The participants were 172 gynecologists practicing in Jordan. The study included various demographics, with 57% female and 43% male respondents, ranging widely in age and educational backgrounds. Over half (55.8%) were under the age of 45, reflecting a younger medical cohort actively practicing in Jordan.
What were the most important findings?
The study revealed several crucial insights regarding gynecologists’ perceptions and clinical handling of PID. Although 68.6% recognized PID as a significant health issue in Jordan, there was notable confusion around its clinical presentation, diagnosis, and appropriate management. Major microbial associations identified by participants were anaerobic bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Streptococcus, followed by Chlamydia trachomatis, and rarely Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Surprisingly, despite these pathogens being critical in PID, clinicians rarely requested targeted tests for C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae. Significant gaps emerged regarding adherence to international guidelines, with only 51% correctly identifying laparoscopy as a diagnostic tool, and fewer employing recommended treatment durations. While CDC guidelines suggest a minimum 14-day antibiotic regimen, many gynecologists treated for shorter periods. Gynecologists frequently identified IUCD insertion as a major PID risk factor, despite modern IUCDs having minimal association.
What are the greatest implications of this study?
This study underscores the urgent need for clearer, culturally adapted clinical guidelines and enhanced physician education on PID in Jordan and similar conservative societies. The findings highlight significant discrepancies between current clinical practice and established international standards, potentially leading to suboptimal patient outcomes and complications like infertility and chronic pelvic pain. Additionally, it draws attention to updating perceptions regarding IUCD risks, employing proper diagnostic tests (including C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae testing), and adopting appropriate treatment protocols. The study strongly recommends targeted educational programs and continuous professional development efforts for gynecologists, emphasizing accurate diagnosis, informed therapeutic approaches, and heightened awareness of PID’s diverse clinical presentations.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is a complex interplay between pathogens, immune responses, and microbial communities. As research continues to uncover the microbiome's role in reproductive health, microbiome-targeted interventions (MBTIs) such as probiotics, prebiotics, and transplants are redefining how we prevent and treat PID. This page dives deep into these innovations, offering a glimpse into the future of personalized, biologically informed women’s healthcare.
Major Microbial Associations (MMAs) are fundamental in understanding disease-microbiome interactions and play a crucial role in advancing microbiome-targeted interventions aimed at treating or preventing diseases through microbial modulation.
Infertility is the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular, unprotected sex. It affects both men and women and can be due to various physical, hormonal, or genetic factors. Treatments include medication, surgery, assisted reproductive technologies, and lifestyle changes.
Chronic Pelvic Pain (CPP) is persistent pain in the pelvic region lasting six months or longer, often multifactorial, impacting physical and emotional well-being, and associated with various medical conditions.