Pelvic inflammatory disease

Abstract

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a genital tract infection that affects a predominantly young and sexually active population. While its exact pathogenesis has yet to be determined, it appears to be caused by several micro-organisms that develop in response to one or more of the following: foreign bodies, such as intrauterine contraceptive devices, retained tampons and douching solutions, and surgery, such as endometrial biopsy and hysterosalpingography. The most common risk factor for PID is multiple sexual partners. The disease is associated with infertility, sterility and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Management calls for aggressive antibiotic therapy and the temporary suspension of sexual activity.