Pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility

Aust J Gen Pract. 2023 Apr;52(4):215-218. doi: 10.31128/AJGP-09-22-6576.

Abstract

Background: Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a major cause of morbidity and reproductive difficulty in women of childbearing age.

Objective: This article outlines the pathogenesis, clinical evaluation and management of PID with a focus on the management of long-term fertility-related sequelae.

Discussion: The clinical presentation of PID can be variable and clinicians need to have a low threshold for suspecting the diagnosis. Despite a good clinical response to antimicrobials, the risk of long-term complications is high. Therefore, a history of PID would warrant early review in couples planning conception for further evaluation and discussion of the various modalities available for treatment if spontaneous conception does not occur.

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Fertility
  • Humans
  • Infertility* / complications
  • Pelvic Inflammatory Disease* / diagnosis
  • Pelvic Inflammatory Disease* / drug therapy
  • Pelvic Inflammatory Disease* / etiology