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Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): A Major Cause of Infertility

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PID; A Major Cause of Infertility: Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

by Sandra T. Barnes

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
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What is PID?

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a serious infection of the female reproductive organs. It can damage the fallopian tubes, ovaries, and uterus, leading to infertility. PID is usually caused by a sexually transmitted infection (STI),such as chlamydia or gonorrhea. In some cases, it can also be caused by a non-STI, such as a bacterial infection.

Symptoms of PID

The symptoms of PID can vary depending on the severity of the infection. Some women may only have mild symptoms, while others may have more severe symptoms. Common symptoms of PID include:

* Pelvic pain * Lower abdominal pain * Pain during intercourse * Painful urination * Unusual vaginal discharge * Fever * Chills * Nausea * Vomiting

Causes of PID

PID is usually caused by a sexually transmitted infection (STI),such as chlamydia or gonorrhea. These infections can be spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. In some cases, PID can also be caused by a non-STI, such as a bacterial infection. This can occur if bacteria from the vagina or cervix travel into the uterus and fallopian tubes.

Risk factors for PID

There are several factors that can increase your risk of developing PID, including:

* Having multiple sexual partners * Having unprotected sex * Having a history of STIs * Using an intrauterine device (IUD) * Having a recent abortion or miscarriage * Having a weakened immune system

Complications of PID

PID can lead to a number of serious complications, including:

* Infertility * Ectopic pregnancy * Chronic pelvic pain * Pelvic abscess * Sepsis

Diagnosis of PID

Your doctor will diagnose PID based on your symptoms and a physical examination. They may also order one or more of the following tests:

* Blood test * Urine test * Cervical culture * Pelvic ultrasound

Treatment of PID

The treatment for PID will depend on the severity of the infection. In most cases, PID can be treated with antibiotics. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged tissue.

Prevention of PID

There are several things you can do to prevent PID, including:

* Practicing safe sex * Getting tested for STIs regularly * Using condoms * Getting vaccinated against HPV * Avoiding douching

Outlook for PID

The outlook for PID is generally good if it is treated promptly. However, PID can lead to serious complications, such as infertility. If you think you may have PID, it is important to see your doctor right away.

Additional information

For more information about PID, please visit the following websites:

* Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/std/pid/ * Planned Parenthood: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/health-and-wellness/pelvic-inflammatory-disease-pid * American Sexual Health Association: https://www.ashasexualhealth.org/std-tests/pid/

PID; A Major Cause of Infertility: Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

by Sandra T. Barnes

4.4 out of 5