Is Pelvic Inflammatory Disease an STD?

In short, a Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is a Sexually transmitted infection (STI).  In this article, we go into greater detail and discuss pelvic inflammatory disease symptoms, treatment, and learn what STD causes pelvic inflammatory disease.

What STD Causes Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Here we go!  Pelvic inflammatory disease is an infection of the female reproductive organs, including the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. While PID can be caused by a variety of bacteria, it is often the result of a sexually transmitted infection, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia. As such, PID is considered an STI, and can be spread through sexual contact.

PID is a serious condition that can lead to long-term health problems if it is not treated promptly. The infection can cause damage to the reproductive organs, leading to complications such as infertility, chronic pelvic pain, or ectopic pregnancy. PID can also increase the risk of other STIs, such as HIV.

Diagnosis of PID usually involves a pelvic exam, tests on vaginal secretions, and other tests to check for signs of infection.  

Preventing PID is the best way to avoid the complications of this infection. Using condoms during sexual intercourse can help to reduce the risk of PID, as can avoiding multiple sexual partners and getting regular screenings for STIs. Women who are sexually active should talk to their healthcare providers about the best ways to prevent PID and other reproductive health problems.

It is important for women who think they may have PID to see a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. Early treatment can help to prevent long-term health problems and reduce the risk of transmitting the infection to others.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Symptoms

The symptoms of PID can vary, but may include the following:

• Abnormal vaginal discharge that may have a strong, unpleasant odor
• Pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis
• Pain or bleeding during sex
• Painful urination
• Heavy or irregular menstrual periods
• Fever or chills
• Nausea or vomiting

Some women with PID may not have any symptoms at all. However, even if there are no pelvic inflammatory disease symptoms, PID can still cause damage to the reproductive organs and lead to complications such as infertility, chronic pelvic pain, or ectopic pregnancy.

It is important for women who think they may have PID to see a healthcare provider for a diagnosis and treatment. STDCheck.com is a good option as well.  We can test you for relevant STD/STIs and eliminate those, so you can focus on getting the PID treatment you need.  A healthcare provider can diagnose PID by conducting a pelvic exam, performing tests on vaginal secretions, and checking for other signs of infection.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Treatment 

Treatment for PID usually involves a course of antibiotics, which may be given orally or intravenously. In some cases, hospitalization may be necessary to provide intravenous antibiotics. It is important for women with PID to complete the entire course of antibiotics to ensure that the infection is completely cleared.

In addition to antibiotics, other treatments may be necessary to address complications of PID, such as scarring of the fallopian tubes or chronic pelvic pain. These treatments may include surgery to remove scar tissue, or medications to manage chronic pain.

STDCheck.com.  We are a testing service business that offers fast, inexpensive, and discreet std testing services that are second to none in the industry.  Check out our website to learn more about our std testing process.  If you are not sure if you have a pelvic inflammatory disease or an STD/STI, we’re here to help!