PELVIC INFLAMMATORY DISEASE
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is a serious complication for women who are infected with untreated Gonorrhea or Chlamydia. It occurs when the STD travels beyond the cervix into the uterus, pelvic cavity, oviducts, and ovaries. It is serious enough for the woman to be hospitalized or need surgery. Even with successful treatment previously infected women can still suffer long-term effects including continued susceptibility to infections, ectopic pregnancies, infertility, and chronic pelvic pain.
PID is the leading cause of infertility in young women
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF PID?
Symptoms vary depending on the STD that is causing it. Early symptoms are the same as those for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea. Worsening symptoms include:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Either bleeding between periods or heavy and painful menstrual bleeding
HOW IS PID DIAGNOSED?
The diagnosis is made based on the symptoms that are present. In addition a physical examination, laboratory tests, and ultrasound may be done. Cultures may be collected to confirm a diagnosis.
HOW IS PID TREATED?
Antibiotics are used to treat PID. However, some women need more then antibiotics and may be hospitalized or require surgery.