Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Introduction
The term pelvic inflammatory disease consists of a variety of conditions but often refers to an infection of the upper genital tract and is characterized by the triad of lower abdominal pain, pyrexia (fever), and vaginal discharge.
Risk Factors
Signs & Symptoms
Referral Patterns
Abdominal is the most common referral site and can be accompanied by pelvic pain. Pain may is often described as a dull ache; back pain may be present.
Red Flag
Because PID is often caused by STDs, any red flags, such as vaginal bleeding or discharge should illicit an immediate medical referral and if treated can prevent spread of the infection or septicemia, and can preserve fertility.
References
Wiesenfeld, H. C., Hillier, S. L., Krohn, M. A., Amortegui, A. J., Heine, R. P., Landers, D. V., & Sweet, R. L. (2002). Lower genital tract infection and endometritis: insight into subclinical pelvic inflammatory disease. Obstet Gynecol, 100(3), 456-463. doi: S002978440202118X [pii]
The term pelvic inflammatory disease consists of a variety of conditions but often refers to an infection of the upper genital tract and is characterized by the triad of lower abdominal pain, pyrexia (fever), and vaginal discharge.
Risk Factors
- Uterine Trauma
- Sexually Transmitted Disease
- Multiple sex partners
- Younger age <25 years (due to immature services)
- Intrauterine device use
Signs & Symptoms
- Often asymptomatic
- Abdominal and/or pelvic pain
- Vaginal discharge or abnormal bleeding
- Dysuria (burning during urination)
- Dyspareunia (painful intercourse)
- Painful menstruation
- Constitutional symptoms (fever, chills, nausea, vomiting)
Referral Patterns
Abdominal is the most common referral site and can be accompanied by pelvic pain. Pain may is often described as a dull ache; back pain may be present.
Red Flag
Because PID is often caused by STDs, any red flags, such as vaginal bleeding or discharge should illicit an immediate medical referral and if treated can prevent spread of the infection or septicemia, and can preserve fertility.
References
Wiesenfeld, H. C., Hillier, S. L., Krohn, M. A., Amortegui, A. J., Heine, R. P., Landers, D. V., & Sweet, R. L. (2002). Lower genital tract infection and endometritis: insight into subclinical pelvic inflammatory disease. Obstet Gynecol, 100(3), 456-463. doi: S002978440202118X [pii]