Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is a general term that refers to infection of the uterus (womb), fallopian tubes (tubes that carry eggs from the ovaries to the uterus) and other reproductive organs. It is a common and serious complication of some sexually transmitted infections (STIs), especially Chlamydia and gonorrhea. PID can damage the fallopian tubes and tissues in and near the uterus and ovaries. PID can lead to serious consequences including infertility, ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy in the fallopian tube or elsewhere outside of the womb), abscess formation, and chronic pelvic pain. A woman may experience mild symptoms or no symptoms at all, while serious damage is being done to her reproductive organs. Women who have symptoms of PID most commonly have lower abdominal pain, but also may experience fever, unusual vaginal discharge that may have a foul odor, painful intercourse, painful urination, irregular menstrual bleeding, or pain in the right upper abdomen (rare).