Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

What is pelvic inflammatory disease?

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is caused by an infection such as gonorrhoea, chlamydia or Mycoplasm genitalium spreading into the uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes and ovaries.

It is a serious disease that can damage or scar the fallopian tubes, which can result in dangerous complications in pregnancy or infertility (so they can’t have a baby).

How do you get PID?

PID is usually sexually transmitted and is the result of having unprotected vaginal sex. Chlamydia and gonorrhoea are the most common causes of PID.

The disease can also occur after a bowel infection or ruptured appendix. PID can also occur after some medical or surgical procedures such as insertion of an intrauterine device, dilatation and curettage or surgical termination of pregnancy, so it is a good idea to be tested for sexually transmitted infections before having the procedure.

Signs and symptoms

Often there are no symptoms, so people don’t know they have PID.

If symptoms are present they can include:

• an unusual vaginal discharge
• unusual vaginal bleeding or spotting
• pain when urinating and during vaginal sex
• lower abdominal pain or discomfort
• heavy and more painful periods
• fever.

How do I get tested for PID?

A swab to test for bacteria is usually taken from the vagina, cervix and/or urethra if PID is suspected.

Other tests may include:

• blood test
• urine sample
• an ultrasound
• laparoscopy (a test that involves a special camera).

Treatment of PID

PID is usually treated with a course of antibiotics. It is important that you finish the course of antibiotics.

You should avoid having sex until the course of antibiotic treatment is finished, and you should encourage your sexual partners to be tested.

How can PID be prevented?

To help prevent spreading the bacteria that causes PID:

• always use a condom during sex
• avoid sex with casual partners or reduce the number of partners
• have regular STI check-ups.

If left untreated

If PID is left untreated it could damage or scar the fallopian tubes, which can lead to dangerous complications in pregnancy, such as ectopic pregnancy, or even infertility.

How can PID be prevented?

To help prevent spreading the bacteria that causes PID:

• always use a condom during sex
• reduce the number of sexual partners
• have regular STI check-ups and encourage your partner/s to have regular STI check-ups.

Remember

• You can have PID without showing any symptoms.
• If left untreated, PID can lead to serious complications including infertility.
• Have regular STI check-ups to detect PID.

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This publication is provided for education and information purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical care. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not imply endorsement and is not intended to replace advice from your healthcare professional. Readers should note that over time currency and completeness of the information may change. All users should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional for a diagnosis and answers to their medical questions.