Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): What You Need to Know Now

Silent infections can damage fertility and cause long-term pain. Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries. It often starts from untreated STIs like chlamydia or gonorrhea, but it can also come from other bacteria after childbirth or procedures. The key is spotting it early and getting treatment fast.

Quick signs and when to see a doctor

Wondering if you might have PID? Watch for lower belly pain that isn’t normal for you, unusual or heavy vaginal discharge, fever, painful sex, or burning when you pee. Pain can be mild or sharp. If you have irregular bleeding after sex or between periods, get checked. Go to urgent care or your provider right away if you have high fever, severe pain, fainting, or heavy bleeding—those can mean an abscess or serious complication.

At the clinic, expect a pelvic exam, vaginal swabs for chlamydia and gonorrhea, a urine test, and possibly blood work. Your provider may order an ultrasound to check for abscesses. Don’t be surprised if they treat based on symptoms before all results return—early antibiotics matter.

Treatment, follow-up, and practical tips

Treatment is usually a course of antibiotics you take for 10 to 14 days. Common regimens combine an injection plus oral pills to cover the usual bacteria. Finish the full course even if you feel better after a few days. If you don’t improve in 48–72 hours, call your provider—sometimes IV antibiotics or hospital care are needed for severe cases.

Tell sexual partners so they can get tested and treated; otherwise reinfection is likely. Avoid sex until you and your partner(s) finish treatment and symptoms clear. Use condoms consistently afterward to reduce risk. If you’ve had PID before, your risk of infertility or ectopic pregnancy goes up, so mention that to your doctor if you’re planning pregnancy.

Prevention is straightforward: get regular STI screening if you’re sexually active, use condoms, limit new or multiple partners, and seek prompt care for any unusual symptoms. Vaccination won’t prevent PID directly, but staying on top of sexual health and routine gynecologic care lowers your chances.

Finally, keep records and follow up. Ask your provider when to return for a recheck or repeat STI tests. If pain or fever returns after treatment, don’t wait. Early action prevents many of the worst outcomes of PID, like chronic pelvic pain or blocked fallopian tubes.

If you want, I can summarize what to tell your doctor, list common antibiotic names you might be prescribed, or provide a short checklist to bring to your appointment. Which would help you most?