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Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Urgent
Pelvic inflammatory disease is an infection and inflammation of the female reproductive organs, including the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. It can cause lower abdominal or pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal discharge, fever, pain during sex, or painful urination, although some people have few or no symptoms. Untreated PID can cause scarring that may lead to infertility, ectopic pregnancy, chronic pelvic pain, or abscesses.
Body System
Female Reproductive System
When to Seek Medical Attention
Pelvic inflammatory disease requires prompt medical assessment and treatment because untreated infection can cause abscesses, infertility, and other complications. Seek care for pelvic or lower abdominal pain, fever, abnormal vaginal discharge, pain during sex, painful urination, or worsening symptoms. Emergency assessment is needed for severe pelvic or abdominal pain, fainting, persistent vomiting, high fever with severe illness, pregnancy with significant symptoms, or signs of a serious infection.
Symptoms
3
Causes
1
Treatments
5
Diet
4
Overview
Pelvic inflammatory disease is an infection and inflammation of the female reproductive organs, including the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. It can cause lower abdominal or pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal discharge, fever, pain during sex, or painful urination, although some people have few or no symptoms. Untreated PID can cause scarring that may lead to infertility, ectopic pregnancy, chronic pelvic pain, or abscesses.
Symptoms 3
Dry Skin
Fever
Skin Redness
Causes 1
Pelvic inflammatory disease is usually caused by bacteria that move upward from the vagina or cervix into the upper reproductive tract. Sexually transmitted infections, especially chlamydia and gonorrhea, are common causes. Other bacteria normally present in the genital tract can also contribute. Untreated infections can spread and cause inflammation and scarring of the reproductive organs.
Infection
Risk Factors
Risk is higher in sexually active people, particularly those younger than 25, those with multiple sex partners, and people with a current or previous sexually transmitted infection. Having a previous episode of PID also increases risk. Douching may increase risk by disturbing normal vaginal bacteria and pushing bacteria upward. Failure to diagnose and treat an STI promptly can also increase the likelihood of PID.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Diagnosis is based on symptoms, medical history, pelvic examination, and laboratory testing. A healthcare professional may look for pelvic or cervical tenderness and abnormal discharge. Tests for sexually transmitted infections, pregnancy testing, urine testing, and other laboratory studies may be used. Ultrasound or other imaging may be considered when an abscess, ectopic pregnancy, or another pelvic condition is suspected.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Reducing exposure to sexually transmitted infections can lower the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease
Using condoms or other barrier protection, limiting the number of sexual partners, and getting recommended STI testing are important preventive measures
Chlamydia and gonorrhea should be treated promptly, and sexual partners may also need evaluation and treatment
Avoiding douching may help protect the normal vaginal environment
Prevention Guidance
Reducing exposure to sexually transmitted infections can lower the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease. Using condoms or other barrier protection, limiting the number of sexual partners, and getting recommended STI testing are important preventive measures. Chlamydia and gonorrhea should be treated promptly, and sexual partners may also need evaluation and treatment. Avoiding douching may help protect the normal vaginal environment.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 4
Recommended Foods
Water
Supports hydration and recovery.
Fresh Fruits
Support immunity.
Vegetables
Provide essential nutrients.
Protein Rich Foods
Support tissue repair.
Foods to Avoid
Alcohol
May worsen inflammation.
Highly Processed Foods
May slow recovery.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
It is an infection of female reproductive organs.
Sexually transmitted infections are common causes.
Pelvic pain, fever, and abnormal discharge may occur.
Pelvic examination and laboratory tests are used.
Untreated PID may affect fertility.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.