Pelvic inflammatory disease, or PID, is an infection of the female organs caused by certain germs spread by sexual contact. The infected organs within the body cause fever and pain. Other symptoms are:
* a foul-smelling vaginal discharge,
* pain in the lower abdomen,
* abnormal bleeding, and
* pain with sex.Treatment is always needed for the woman and her partner(s).

To test for PID, your healthcare provider will need to perform an examination and run tests. Blood tests will determine how severe the infection is. If it is not clear that PID is the problem, further testing may be done. A laparoscope, a telescope-like tool, may be used to look inside the body, directly at the female organs.

Treatment is needed to help prevent two serious problems:
* an abscess, a pocket of pus inside your body that causes damage to your female organs or death, and
* a problem of getting pregnant in the future.

A hospital stay may be necessary if the PID is severe or you are sick to your stomach. Antibiotic drugs will be given by vein at that time followed by antibiotic tablets for a total of 10 to 14 days. If the PID is not too severe, tablets can be taken at home for the entire time. If during this time you do not get better or get worse, call your doctor immediately.

PID can hinder a woman's ability to get pregnant in the future. The more times a woman is sick with it, the more scarred her organs will get.

People at risk for PID have many sex partners or do not use a barrier, like a condom. For people who have more than one partner, the birth control method called an IUD adds to your risk. Your partner's health is important to your health, so be safe. Use a plastic or latex condom with a water based lubricant. Seek help right away if you notice any symptoms.

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