Per CDC:
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) an infection of a woman's reproductive organs. It is a complication often caused by some STIs, like chlamydia and gonorrhea. Other infections that are not sexually transmitted can also cause PID.
Key points
Untreated sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), a serious condition, in women
1 in 8 women with a history of PID experience difficulties getting pregnant.
You can prevent PID if you know how to protect yourself. This fact sheet answers basic questions about PID.
How do I know if I have PID?
There are no tests for PID. A diagnosis is usually based on a combination of your medical history, physical exam, and other test results. You may not realize you have PID because your symptoms may be mild, or you may not experience any symptoms. However, if you do have symptoms, you may notice
Pain in your lower abdomen
Fever
An unusual discharge with a bad odor from your vagina
Pain and/or bleeding when you have sex
Burning sensation when you urinate
Bleeding between periods
You should
Be examined by your doctor if you notice any of these symptoms
Promptly see a doctor if you think you or your sex partner(s) have or were exposed to an STI
Promptly see a doctor if you have any genital symptoms such as an unusual sore, a smelly discharge, burning when peeing, or bleeding between periods
Get a test for chlamydia and gonorrhea every year if you are sexually active and younger than 25 years of age
Have an honest and open talk with your health care provider if you are sexually active and ask whether you should be tested for other STIs
How can I reduce my risk of getting PID?
The only way to avoid STIs is to not have vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
If you are sexually active, you can do the following things to lower your chances of getting PID:
Being in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and has negative STI test results
Using latex condoms, the right way every time you have sex
To learn more visit: About Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) | Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) | CDC
