Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of the female reproductive organs. It is usually caused by bacteria that enter the uterus, fallopian tubes, and other areas of the reproductive system. PID is the most common cause of infertility in women and can also lead to long-term health problems if left untreated.
Symptoms of PID
Symptoms of PID can vary, and some women may not experience any symptoms at all. Common symptoms include:
• Pain in the lower abdomen
• Abnormal vaginal discharge
• Fever
• Painful sex
• Painful urination
• Bleeding between periods
• Abnormal menstrual bleeding
Causes of PID
The most common cause of PID is bacteria that enter the reproductive organs. This can happen if the bacteria from the vagina spread to the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries. This can occur due to a variety of factors, including:
• Unprotected sexual intercourse
• Having multiple sexual partners
• Douching
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• Previous PID
• Use of an intrauterine device (IUD)
• Pelvic surgery
Diagnosis and Treatment of PID
PID can be diagnosed with a pelvic exam, a sample of cervical cells, or a blood test. Treatment of PID usually involves antibiotics to kill the bacteria that caused the infection. If left untreated, PID can cause infertility, chronic pelvic pain, and other long-term health problems.
In conclusion, PID is an infection of the female reproductive organs that can cause long-term health problems if left untreated. It is typically caused by bacteria that enter the reproductive organs due to unprotected sexual intercourse, having multiple sexual partners, douching, the presence of STIs, previous PID, the use of an IUD, or pelvic surgery. PID can be diagnosed with a pelvic exam, sample of cervical cells, or a blood test, and is usually treated with antibiotics.