Condition guide
Pelvic inflammation (PID)
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease — infection of the uterus, fallopian tubes or ovaries, usually from untreated STIs.
1 in 8
Women with a history of PID struggle to conceive
85%
Of cases linked to STIs
6x
Higher risk of ectopic pregnancy after PID
What it is
PID is inflammation of the upper reproductive tract caused when bacteria — most often chlamydia or gonorrhoea — spread from the vagina or cervix. Early treatment is essential to prevent long-term damage including infertility and chronic pelvic pain.
Infographic
How infection spreads
Bacteria travel from the cervix up to the uterus, tubes and ovaries.
Common symptoms
- Lower abdominal or pelvic pain
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Bleeding between periods or after sex
- Pain during sex
- Fever and feeling unwell
- Burning when urinating
Causes & risk factors
- Chlamydia and gonorrhoea (most common)
- Other bacterial infections
- Recent childbirth, miscarriage or termination
- Procedures involving the cervix
Diagnosis
- Pelvic examination
- Vaginal and cervical swabs
- Blood tests for inflammation
- Ultrasound to rule out abscess
Treatment & management
Antibiotics
A 14-day course of combination antibiotics, started as soon as PID is suspected.
Partner treatment
Sexual partners must be tested and treated to prevent reinfection.
Pain relief and rest
Paracetamol or NSAIDs, fluids, and avoiding sex until cleared.
Hospital care
IV antibiotics if severe, pregnant, or an abscess is present.
When to seek urgent help
Severe pain, high fever, vomiting, fainting or pregnancy with PID symptoms — go to A&E.
Frequently asked
Can PID come back?
Yes, each episode increases the risk of infertility. Always treat partners and re-test.
Does PID always cause infertility?
No, but prompt antibiotic treatment dramatically reduces the risk.
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