Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Medically ReviewedOften Asymptomatic
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a serious infection of the female reproductive organs that can cause infertility if untreated. It is most often caused by untreated chlamydia or gonorrhoea. Early diagnosis with swabs and blood tests, followed by prompt antibiotic treatment, prevents long-term complications.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease: Key Facts
Often Asymptomatic- Incubation Period
- Days to weeks after initial STI infection
- Test Window
- Tested when symptoms present; STI screening recommended
- Results
- 24–48 hours
- Treatment
- Course of antibiotics (often 14 days)
- Cure Rate
- 95%+ if treated early
Results within 24 hours • Same-day treatment available
Symptoms of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Common Symptoms
- Lower abdominal pain
- Abnormal vaginal discharge
- Pain during sex
- Irregular bleeding
Symptoms in Women
- Lower abdominal or pelvic pain
- Pain during sex (deep dyspareunia)
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Bleeding between periods or after sex
- Heavy or painful periods
- Fever and feeling generally unwell
How is Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Transmitted?
- Caused by bacteria spreading from the vagina/cervix to the upper reproductive tract
- Usually follows untreated chlamydia or gonorrhoea
- Can occur after childbirth, miscarriage, or insertion of an IUD
Prevention
- Regular STI testing and prompt treatment
- Use condoms consistently
- Early treatment of chlamydia and gonorrhoea
- Partner notification and treatment
Complications if Untreated
- Infertility (affects approximately 1 in 10 women with PID)
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Tubo-ovarian abscess
Frequently Asked Questions
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View PackagesPelvic Inflammatory Disease: Key Facts
Often Asymptomatic- Incubation Period
- Days to weeks after initial STI infection
- Test Window
- Tested when symptoms present; STI screening recommended
- Results
- 24–48 hours
- Treatment
- Course of antibiotics (often 14 days)
- Cure Rate
- 95%+ if treated early
Results within 24 hours • Same-day treatment available