Find A Clinic

What is…?

Back to Glossary

PID – Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

An infection of female reproductive organs, including the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries, typically caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia or gonorrhea, but can also result from other types of bacterial infections. PID can lead to inflammation, scarring, and damage to the reproductive organs, which may result in chronic pelvic pain, infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and other complications if left untreated.

Key Features:

  • Causes:
    • PID is most commonly caused by sexually transmitted infections, particularly chlamydia and gonorrhea, which can ascend from the vagina and cervix into the upper reproductive organs.
    • Other bacteria, such as those associated with bacterial vaginosis or postpartum infections, can also cause PID.
  • Risk Factors:
    • Risk factors for PID include having multiple sexual partners, a history of STIs, unprotected sex, douching, and previous episodes of PID.
    • Younger age, cigarette smoking, and a compromised immune system may also increase the risk of developing PID.
  • Symptoms:
    • Symptoms of PID can vary but may include lower abdominal or pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal discharge (e.g., foul-smelling or unusual in color), painful urination, irregular menstrual bleeding, fever, and pain during intercourse.
    • Some individuals with PID may have mild or nonspecific symptoms, while others may experience severe symptoms requiring immediate medical attention.
  • Diagnosis:
    • Diagnosis of PID may involve a combination of medical history, pelvic examination, laboratory tests (e.g., vaginal swab for STIs, urine test, blood tests), and imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound, MRI).
    • Laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure, may be performed in severe or complicated cases to directly visualize the pelvic organs.
  • Treatment:
    • Treatment for PID typically involves antibiotics to eradicate the infecting bacteria.
    • In severe cases or in the presence of complications such as abscesses or tubal damage, hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics may be necessary.
    • Sexual partners may also need treatment to prevent reinfection.
  • Complications:
    • Untreated or recurrent PID can lead to serious complications, including chronic pelvic pain, infertility due to scarring and adhesions in the fallopian tubes, ectopic pregnancy, and an increased risk of pelvic abscesses or chronic pelvic inflammatory disease.
  • Prevention:
    • Prevention strategies for PID include practicing safe sex (e.g., using condoms), limiting the number of sexual partners, seeking prompt treatment for STIs, and avoiding douching, which can disrupt the natural balance of vaginal bacteria and increase the risk of infection.

Online References: