pelvic inflammatory disease

(PID, pelvic inflammatory disorder)

An bacterial infection (e.g. Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis) spread from vagina and cervix to the upper part of the female reproductive system (uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries, and inside of the pelvis).
Patients with any STD are at increased risk of coinfection with another STD, coinfection of gonorrhea and chlamydia is most common.

Treatment may include painkillers and antibiotics (e.g. dual therapy with ceftriaxone and azithromycin). Sometimes, surgery may be needed to drain a pocket of infection or an abscess.

(Causes)
• sex: Transmitted by a sexual partner.
• improper sterilization of procedures: E.g. dilation and curettage, septic abortions.
• vaginal douching: Causes an imbalance between good and bad bacteria, negatively affecting vaginal health.
• ruptured abscess: From inside the abdomen spread to the uterine tubes.

(Symptoms)
Often, there may be no symptoms, when present...
• lower abdominal pain
• vaginal discharge
• fever
• burning with urination
• pain with sex
• bleeding after sex
• irregular menstruation

(Complications)
• infertility
• ectopic pregnancy
• chronic pelvic pain
• cancer