What is it?
Pelvic inflammatory disease is a bacterial infection of your uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. This infection may be a result of an untreated sexually transmitted infection (STI), such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea. Pelvic inflammatory disease can also occur:
- Due to an overgrowth of vaginal bacteria
- After childbirth
- After a procedure such as an abortion or intrauterine device insertion
If left untreated, pelvic inflammatory disease may damage reproductive organs.
What will my GP do now?
You will have a urine test, an antibiotic treatment including an injection and tablets, as well as pain relief if needed. Your GP may also discuss:
- Testing for sexually transmitted infections, if necessary
- Stopping sex while you recover, and safe sex practices in the future
- Contact tracing (telling sexual partners you have had a sexually transmitted infection) if the infection was due to an STI
If your condition is severe or complicated, your GP may refer you to a specialist.
What will my GP do in the future?
Your GP may want to see you again soon, to check how your treatment is going and to discuss test results. If your condition is not improving your GP may suggest another test such as an ultrasound. As reinfection is common, your GP may suggest they see you again after three months or so.
What can I do?
Continue taking your antibiotics, even if you’re feeling better.
If your PID was caused by a sexually transmitted infection, you may need to make sure everyone you’ve had sex with in the last two months knows to get tested. Speaking to previous partners will stop them spreading an infection and encourage them to get treatment.
