Pelvic infection in women is common and significantly affects reproductive health. A variety of microorganisms are implicated in the pathogenesis and sexually transmitted infections are the predominant cause in young women. There is a wide variation in the clinical severity of the disease and subclinical episodes are common. Diagnosis is generally based on clinical factors and is imprecise. Effective treatment is available but does not necessarily avert tubal damage. A significant proportion of cases of pelvic inflammatory disease could be prevented if prevention strategies and guidelines were implemented.
ABSTRACT