PID is the term for a genital infection which has spread to the internal reproductive organs known as Pelvic Inflammatory Disease.  The disease is usually a result of an untreated case of gonorrhea or chlamydia. It can affect the fallopian tubes, ovaries and uterus. If PID is not treated, it may result in sterility, ectopic pregnancy, and chronic pain.

What are the symptoms of PID?

The infection caused by PID has a wide range of symptoms which can often be confused with the diseases which typically precede PID; chlamydia or gonorrhea. The symptoms of PID include: pain during intercourse, increased discomfort during menstruation, irregular periods, breakthrough bleeding between periods, and abnormal vaginal discharge. Other symptoms include general illness with fever and/or chills and weight loss.

How is PID treated?

The infection can only be diagnosed through a pelvic exam. It is recommended as with all sexual health problems that you be as honest as possible with your physician about your sexual history, so that he/she may better diagnose the condition. PID can be treated with antibiotics, bed rest, and sexual abstinence. There may be internal scarring or abscesses which will have to be surgically removed.