3. INTRODUCTION TO PELVIC INFLAMMATORY
DISEASE (PID)
• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is a common infection of the
female reproductive organs.
• It affects the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and other pelvic
organs.
• Often caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs),
particularly chlamydia and gonorrhea.
4. CAUSES OF PID
PID is primarily caused by the ascending spread of bacteria from
the vagina and cervix into the upper reproductive tract.
• Common causative agents include sexually transmitted bacteria
such as Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
• Other bacteria found in the vaginal flora, such as anaerobes and
Mycoplasma genitalium, can also contribute to PID.
5. RISK FACTORS OF PID
• Multiple sexual partners or a partner with multiple partners.
• History of previous PID or STIs.
• Insertion of an intrauterine device (IUD).
• Younger age at first intercourse.
• Cigarette smoking.
6. SYMPTOMS OF PID
• Lower abdominal pain or pelvic pain.
• Abnormal vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odor.
• Pain during intercourse.
• Irregular menstrual bleeding.
• Fever and chills.
• Nausea and vomiting.
7. DIAGNOSIS OF PID
• Clinical evaluation, including a pelvic examination to assess for
tenderness, abnormal discharge, or masses.
• Laboratory tests such as urine analysis, vaginal swabs for
culture, and blood tests for inflammatory markers.
• Imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI may be performed to
visualize the pelvic organs and assess for complications like
abscesses.
8. COMPLICATIONS OF PID
Chronic pelvic pain: Persistent pain in the pelvic region, impacting
quality of life.
• Infertility: Scarring and damage to the fallopian tubes and other
reproductive organs can lead to infertility or increase the risk of
ectopic pregnancy.
• Tubo-ovarian abscess: A collection of pus involving the fallopian
tubes and ovaries, which may require surgical drainage.
9. TREATMENT OF PID
• Antibiotics are the main treatment, typically administered
empirically to cover a broad spectrum of potential pathogens.
• Pain management with analgesics such as nonsteroidal anti-
inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
• In severe cases or when abscesses are present, hospitalization
and intravenous antibiotics may be necessary.
• Sexual partners should also be treated to prevent reinfection.
10. PREVENTION OF PID
• Practice safe sex by using barrier contraceptives like condoms
and limiting sexual partners.
• Undergo regular screening for STIs, particularly if sexually active
or at increased risk.
• Avoid douching, as it can disrupt the vaginal flora and increase
the risk of infections.
• Prompt treatment of any suspected STIs to prevent the
development of PID and its complications.
