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Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

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Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is an infection of the female upper genital tract caused by bacteria, commonly Chlamydia Trachomatis or Neisseria gonorrhoeae, that accends from the cervix or vagina to the reproductive organs.

Signs & Symptoms: range from mild unrecognized to severe (causing hospitalization)

• Abnormal vaginal discharge
• Burning sensation when urinating
• Lower abdominal pain
• Low back pain
• Nausea and or fever
• Pain during intercourse
• Bleeding between menstrual periods
• Pain in the right upper abdomen

Complications & Consequences:

• Damage to the reproductive organs including the fallopian tubes and tissues in and near the uterus and ovaries
• Infertility
• Ectopic (tubal) pregnancy
• Access formation
• Chronic pelvic pain

Prevention:

• Abstinence
• Early treatment of any STD
• Appropriate use of latex condoms and barriers
• Avoidance of sexual contact with partner until treatment is completed
• Appropriate treatment of partner
• Discontinue sexual contact if signs or symptoms occur
• Screening test during pregnancy
• Annual screening for all sexually active women 25 years of age and younger
• Notify all recent sex partners if infected