PID, or pelvic inflammatory disease, is an infection of the reproductive organs in women that can cause serious health complications if left untreated. Symptoms of PID can be subtle and often go unnoticed until the infection has progressed to a more serious stage.
The most common symptoms of PID are abdominal pain, discomfort during intercourse, abnormal vaginal discharge, irregular menstrual cycles, fever, and fatigue. Pain in the lower abdomen is usually the first symptom to appear and is often accompanied by a burning sensation or cramping. Pain during intercourse may also be present, as well as a yellowish or greenish discharge from the vagina with an unpleasant odor. In some cases, women may experience irregular menstrual cycles or an increase in the amount of menstrual bleeding. Fever and fatigue can also be present in some cases.
In addition to these symptoms, other signs of PID include an increase in urinary frequency, pain or burning during urination, and tenderness in the lower abdomen or pelvis. Women may also experience pain in the lower back, nausea, or vomiting.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Your doctor will be able to perform tests to rule out other potential causes of your symptoms and determine if you have PID. These tests may include a physical examination, pelvic exam, ultrasound, or a lab test to check for signs of infection. If PID is suspected, your doctor may also recommend further testing or treatment.