Dear vicky_22r,

Dear vicky_22,

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of a woman's internal reproductive system that can lead to infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and chronic pain, especially if untreated. It is not a sexually transmitted infection, but it is often caused by untreated sexually transmitted infections — most commonly, gonorrhea and chlamydia. That's one of the reasons routine gynecological checkups are important for sexually active women.

Only a health care provider can diagnose PID, but some common symptoms include

• fever and chills
• nausea and vomiting
• pain during intercourse
• pain in the lower abdomen
• spotting and pain between periods or during urination
• unusually long or painful periods and unusual vaginal discharge

Latex and female condoms greatly reduce the risk of getting the infections commonly associated with PID.