Fallopian Tube Disease, Including PID — VA Rating (DC 7614)
Diagnostic Code 7614 · 38 CFR §4.116
What Is It?
DC 7614 covers disease, injury, or adhesions of the fallopian tubes, including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID is specifically listed under this diagnostic code in the CFR. Conditions include hydrosalpinx (fluid-filled tubes), salpingitis (tube inflammation), tubal scarring from infections, and adhesions that block or distort the tubes. PID — an infection of the reproductive organs usually caused by bacteria ascending from the cervix — is one of the most common causes of tubal damage. Veterans may develop these conditions from pelvic infections acquired during service, complications from military surgical procedures, or as a secondary effect of other service-connected gynecological conditions. The VA rates the condition using the General Rating Formula for Disease, Injury, or Adhesions of Female Reproductive Organs.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 30% | Symptoms are not controlled by continuous treatment. Despite ongoing medication and management, symptoms like chronic pelvic pain or recurrent infection persist. |
| 10% | Symptoms require continuous treatment. Ongoing medication or regular medical management is needed to control pain, inflammation, or other symptoms. |
| 0% | Symptoms do not require continuous treatment. The condition or its residual effects are present but manageable without ongoing medication. |
Evidence Needed
Imaging studies (ultrasound, HSG, or MRI) showing the tubal abnormality are important. Surgical reports from any laparoscopic procedures provide objective evidence. Records of pelvic infections during service help establish the cause. Treatment records showing ongoing symptoms and management demonstrate current severity. For PID specifically, records of the original infection diagnosis and treatment during service are essential for establishing service connection. A reproductive endocrinologist opinion may be valuable if fertility is affected.
C&P Exam Tips
Describe any pain you experience, including its location, frequency, and what triggers it. Report any history of ectopic pregnancy or difficulty conceiving, as these are significant complications. For PID residuals, focus on lasting effects rather than the original infection — describe chronic pain, adhesion symptoms, and any recurrent infections. Explain how the condition affects your daily activities and quality of life. Mention all treatments you have received, including medications and surgeries.
How to File
File VA Form 21-526EZ identifying the fallopian tube condition or PID residuals under DC 7614. Include imaging results, surgical reports, and treatment records. For PID, include the original infection documentation from service records. Provide service medical records showing the onset of the condition or the causative event. File separate claims for each secondary condition (infertility, chronic pain, depression) for maximum compensation. A gynecologist nexus letter connecting current symptoms to the in-service condition is very helpful.
Common Mistakes
Not pursuing imaging studies that could objectively document the tubal damage Overlooking infertility as a separate secondary condition that can be claimed Failing to connect a current tubal condition to a documented in-service pelvic infection Filing PID under the wrong diagnostic code — the CFR specifically places PID under DC 7614
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I claim infertility caused by tubal damage?
Yes. If your service-connected tubal condition has caused infertility, you can claim it as a secondary condition. The VA also offers special monthly compensation for loss of a creative organ, which may apply if both tubes are blocked or removed.
What if my PID was treated years ago but I still have pain?
This is very common. PID often causes lasting adhesions and scarring that produce chronic pain long after the infection is treated. You can claim the chronic pain and other residual effects as long as you can connect the original infection to your military service. The key evidence is service records showing the PID diagnosis and current medical records documenting the ongoing symptoms.
What if my tubes were removed during service?
Surgical removal of one or both fallopian tubes during service can be directly service-connected. The rating depends on residual symptoms. This is separate from hysterectomy or ovary removal ratings under other diagnostic codes.