What causes pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)? When an infection such as gonorrhoea, chlamydia or non-specific urethritis (NSU), spreads into a woman’s reproductive organs.
How is PID spread? By unprotected vaginal sex.
What are the symptoms of PID? Often there are no symptoms. If there are symptoms, they can include:
- an unusual vaginal discharge
- pain when passing urine and during vaginal sex
- lower belly pain or discomfort
- unusual vaginal bleeding or spotting
- heavy and more painful periods
- fever with or without chills.
One or more attacks of PID can damage and scar the fallopian tubes. This can reduce fertility or lead to ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy in the fallopian tubes which can be very dangerous).
How do you get tested for PID? Tests may include: swabs taken from the vagina, cervix and/or urethra; a urine test; ultrasound; and laparoscopy (using a special camera).
What is the treatment for PID? Antibiotics. Avoid sexual intercourse until treatment is completed and all sexual partners are tested and treated.
How can you minimise the risk of getting PID?
- always use a condom
- avoid sex with casual partners and/or decrease your number of sexual partners.
Have a check-up for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) if you have had:
- unsafe sex
- a new partner
- symptoms.
Visit the "Where can I go for help?" webpage to find out where you can get an STI check-up
