Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is caused by bacteria, often
the same type that is responsible for several sexually
transmitted diseases, such as gonorrhea and chlamydia. In some
cases, PID develops from bacteria that has traveled through the
vagina and the cervix by way of an intrauterine device (IUD).
PID can affect the uterus, fallopian tubes, and/or the ovaries.
It can lead to pelvic adhesions and scar tissue that develops
between internal organs, causing ongoing pelvic pain and the
possibility of an ectopic pregnancy (the fertilized egg becomes
implanted outside the uterus). Left untreated, infertility can
develop. In fact, one in 10 women with PID becomes infertile. If
left untreated, PID can also lead to chronic infection. In
addition, if PID is not diagnosed early enough, peritonitis and
inflammation of the walls of the abdominal and pelvic cavity may
develop. Although women of any age can develop PID, sexually
active women under age 25, and those of childbearing age are at
the greatest risk of acqu