What is Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)?

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease is a bacterial infection affecting the female reproductive organs. It can affect the uterus (womb), fallopian tubes, ovaries and cervix. If left untreated, it can lead to serious and long term complications.

What are the causes of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease?

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease is often caused by a sexually transmitted infection such as Chlamydia or Gonorrhoea. The infection spreads from the vagina or cervix to more internal  reproductive organs. Sometimes, PID can also be caused by bacteria that normally lives in the vagina, usually when there is an injury to the cervix causing bacteria to enter the uterus.

What should you do if you have symptoms of PID?

If you experience symptoms of PID it is important to visit your GP or local sexual health clinic quickly. They will talk through your symptoms and complete tests to check for PID.

If you have severe pain, you should seek urgent medical attention from your GP or local A&E department.

If diagnosed at an early stage, PID can be treated with a course of antibiotics.

Signs and Symptoms of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease?

The most common symptoms of PID are

  • Pain in your pelvis or lower abdomen
  • Unusual or heavy vaginal discharge that may have an unpleasant odour
  • Bleeding between periods or after sex
  • Pain when peeing
  • Pain during sex
  • Heavy or painful periods

ℹ️ Further information

Additional information regarding Pelvic Inflammatory Disease can be found on the NHS website.

You can receive free testing for Chlamydia or Gonorrhoea at your local sexual health clinic. You can also order a free test through the post via SH:24.