Abstract

PIP: The etiology of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is speculated upon based on reported incidence and epidemiological studies. In Western society, the incidence of PID (annual) is 1% among women aged 15-34 years and 2% in the high risk group of women aged 15-24 years. The annual incidence in the US is higher, at least 2% among fecund sexually active women aged 13-44 years. The medical consequences of PID are infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and chronic pelvic pain. Causative agents include Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, Mycoplasma hominis and various other aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms; however, the natural genital flora of females is so varied that determining actual causative agents is difficult. some case-control studies have determined risk factors for PID; these include particularly current or prior use of IUD, prior pelvic surgery, sexual activity (including number of partners), race, and prior PID acute infection. PID is not a sexually transmitted disease, but rather is classified as sexually derived. Use of barrier methods and oral contraceptives protects against PID. IUD use greatly increases the risk of PID, probably because of the avenue the device provides for organisms to ascend from the lower to the upper genital tract. The role of males in PID etiology is currently the subject of much discussion. It is theorized that the mechanical action of penis insertion in intercourse helps to move causative agents to the upper genital region; also, semen may carry vaginal flora through the cervical opening into the uterus and tubes. Menstruation and PID are closely associated, perhaps because the cervix dilates during bleedings. Research areas include: determination of role of sexual activity (and number of partners) in PID etiology; evaluation of events of menstruation that are predisposing; evaluation of relationship between bacteriosperma and lower and upper genital infections; relationship of particular contraceptive methods to PID incidence; and breakdown of risk factors.