Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

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Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a bacterial infection of the female reproductive organs that is typically transmitted through sexual intercourse.

Women with PID often experience no symptoms and the infection is detected when they have trouble getting pregnant or develop chronic pelvic pain.

Symptoms of PID

Symptoms of pelvic inflammatory disease may include: 

• Pain in your lower abdomen and pelvis
• Heavy vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odor
• Irregular menstrual bleeding
• Pain during intercourse
• Low back pain
• Fever, fatigue, diarrhea, or vomiting
• Painful or difficult urination

Treatment for PID

Antibiotics are the standard treatment for pelvic inflammatory disease, along with pain relievers and bed rest.

Prevention of PID

To prevent PID or a reinfection, your sexual partner should be examined and treated. Sexual intercourse should be avoided until treatment is completed and tests indicate that the infection has cleared.