Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

Definition

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of the female reproductive organs, including the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. It is often caused by sexually transmitted bacteria such as Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. PID commonly results from untreated sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
2. Symptoms can include lower abdominal pain, fever, unusual vaginal discharge, and pain during intercourse.
3. Complications of PID can lead to chronic pelvic pain, infertility, and ectopic pregnancy.
4. Diagnosis typically involves pelvic exams, cervical cultures, and sometimes ultrasound imaging.
5. Treatment usually consists of broad-spectrum antibiotics to target the likely bacterial pathogens.

Review Questions

• What are the common bacterial causes of PID?
• List three potential complications that can arise from untreated PID.
• How is PID generally diagnosed in a clinical setting?

Related terms

Chlamydia trachomatis: A bacterium that causes chlamydia, a common STI linked with PID.

Neisseria gonorrhoeae: The bacterium responsible for gonorrhea, another STI that can lead to PID.

Ectopic Pregnancy: A potentially life-threatening condition where a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, often associated with damage from PID.