The Jamaica Star :: Health :: What is PID?

Dear Counsellor:

I'm 32 years old and have been married for the past six years. I have been trying to get pregnant ever since I got married. Recently I went to the doctor and he told me that I have Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) and that I may never be able to get pregnant. What is PID and is it serious?

Wife

Dear Wife:

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) affects women's reproductive organs. PID sometimes follows infection from a sexually transmitted infection. It causes infection and inflammation at several sites, including the abdominal cavity, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the uterus.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease is a leading cause of infertility/sterility in women. It can also lead to serious problems such as chronic pelvic pain and the need for surgery later in life.

Fortunately, you were informed about PID. You will need to find out from your doctor how far gone is this infection. Treatment is usually very effective if the medical plan is followed carefully.

OLD CONDOM

Dear Counsellor:

My boyfriend and I went for a drive into rural Jamaica. We both felt horny and we decided to do a thing. My boyfriend pulled over on a lonely road so we could have sex. I asked him if he has a condom and he reached into the glove compartment of the car and took out one that looked like it was there for weeks. Would this condom still be good although the expiry date has not passed?

Careful Girlfriend

Dear Careful Girlfriend:

This is an important question. If condoms are stored properly in a cool dry place they should last about five years, but they will deteriorate very fast if exposed to heat or sunlight, or if they receive rough treatment. This means that if you are storing condoms in the glove compartment of a car or if you are carrying them in your wallet or purse, you should not leave them there for several weeks before you use them. When in doubt about a condom's age or condition, throw it out and use a new one every time you have sex.

For further information on condom use, HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections, call the AIDS/STD Helpline at 967-3830, 967-3839 or toll free,

1888-991-4444 or write to AIDS Affairs, c/o The Star, 7 North Street, Kingston.