pelvic inflammatory disease

Definition

Or: PID, an infection of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix or uterus, all parts of the female reproductive system, caused by untreated gonorrhea, chlamydia or, more rarely, other bacterial infections spreading to the uterine lining or fallopian tubes. PID can cause scarring of the fallopian tubes, which can lead to other problems such as infertility and ectopic pregnancy (when a fetus grows anywhere outside the uterus, such as in the fallopian tubes). SYMPTOMS: Some women have no symptoms or very mild ones. The most common symptoms are cramping (abdominal pain) and cervical tenderness. Other possible symptoms are unexplained bleeding between menstrual periods, increased or changed vaginal discharge, pain during sex, nausea and/or vomiting, and fever. TREATMENT: Can be treated with oral antibiotics such as penicillin, ampicillin, or tetracycline.