​Pelvic Inflammatory Disorder/Disease

Pelvic inflammatory disorder (PID) is an infection of the female reproductive organs. It usually occurs when a sexually transmitted disease (STD) travels up from the vagina and reaches the uterus, fallopian tubes or ovaries. PID is a serious condition which can scar and damage reproductive organs, leading to subfertility, ectopic pregnancy, chronic pelvic pain and other serious health problems.​​​​​​​​

Gonorrhea and chlamydia (STDs) are the most common causes of PID. PID is most commonly seen in women under 25 years of age, although there is no age limit. Risk factors include:

• Multiple sexual partners, or having a partner who has multiple sexual partners
  

• Unprotected intercourse
  

• Frequent douching: the practice of rinsing the vagina with a cleansing agent or even plain water. This can be harmful as it upsets the natural chemical and bacterial balance of the area 
  

• Having a history of PID or STDs​

When to seek expert advise

Due to the seriousness of the disease, and its complications, it is important to seek medical help for it at an early stage. Therefore, if you experience any of the above listed symptoms, it is advised that you reach out to your Kidney and Bladder Service physician at The Aga Khan University Hospital. For a preliminary examination, you can also consult doctors working with the Family Health Services at The Aga Khan University Hospital.

You can also seek help from a gynaecologist working with the Women's Health Care Service Line at The Aga Khan University Hospital.

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