Recognize PID Early, Treat Promptly

Fast, guideline-based care to protect fertility and relieve pain.

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Pelvic inflammatory disease is an infection of the uterus, fallopian tubes, and/or ovaries—often related to sexually transmitted bacteria, but sometimes due to vaginal or postpartum bacteria. Early diagnosis and treatment reduce the risk of chronic pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancy, and fertility problems.

Fast Facts About PID

Common causes: chlamydia, gonorrhea, and mixed vaginal bacteria

Symptoms can be subtle—don’t wait for high fever

Treat early to lower risks of infertility and ectopic pregnancy

Partners usually need evaluation and treatment

Common Symptoms

  • Lower abdominal or pelvic pain
  • Pain with sex or pelvic exam
  • Abnormal discharge or odor
  • Irregular bleeding (after sex or between periods)
  • Fever, chills, nausea (not always present)
  • Painful or frequent urination

Why It Matters

Untreated PID can scar fallopian tubes and pelvic tissues. Prompt antibiotics and follow-up help prevent chronic pelvic pain and future pregnancy complications.

Diagnosis & Evaluation

We start with history, exam, and STI testing (swabs/urine) and may add blood work. Pelvic ultrasound helps assess for complications like a tubo-ovarian abscess but is not required to start treatment. When PID is suspected, we treat right away—waiting for test results can delay care.

Uncomplicated Cervicitis vs. PID

Cervicitis (Neck of the Uterus)

  • Discharge, burning, spotting
  • Pelvic exam: no uterine/adnexal tenderness
  • Lower risk of internal scarring
  • Oral antibiotics; narrower coverage

PID (Upper Genital Tract)

  • Pelvic/lower abdominal pain ± fever
  • Tender uterus/adnexa or pain with cervical motion
  • Higher risk of infertility/ectopic pregnancy
  • Broader antibiotic regimen; close follow-up

Treatment Plan

Most cases are treated as an outpatient with a combination of antibiotics that cover likely organisms. We provide the first doses in office when possible and review precise instructions. Severe illness, pregnancy, vomiting, or suspected abscess may require IV therapy and observation. Abstain from sex until treatment is complete and symptoms resolve, and ensure partners are treated to prevent reinfection.

Follow-Up & Recovery

You should feel noticeably better within 48–72 hours. If not, we reassess for resistant organisms or complications. A test of cure or rescreening for STIs is recommended in the weeks after treatment. Persistent or recurrent pain deserves evaluation for adhesions or other causes.

What to Bring to Your Visit

  • ✓Symptom timeline (fever, pain, discharge, bleeding)
  • ✓Medication/allergy list (including recent antibiotics)
  • ✓Date of last period and contraception method
  • ✓Pregnancy status or possibility of pregnancy
  • ✓Recent STI tests or imaging, if available

Frequently Asked Questions

1Will I need to be hospitalized?

Most patients can be treated with oral antibiotics and close follow-up. Hospital care is recommended if you are pregnant, severely ill, vomiting, not improving after 72 hours, or if an abscess is suspected.

2Do my partners need treatment?

Yes—recent sexual partners usually need evaluation and treatment to prevent reinfection. We provide guidance and, where allowed, expedited partner therapy.

3Can PID affect my fertility?

It can if untreated or recurrent. Early treatment helps protect fertility. If you have future trouble conceiving, we may arrange further evaluation.

4Do I need my IUD removed?

Not usually. If PID is diagnosed with an IUD in place, we start antibiotics and monitor closely. Removal is considered if you aren’t improving within 48–72 hours or if you prefer removal.

5When can I resume sex?

After you complete antibiotics and symptoms resolve, and partners have been treated. This helps prevent recurrence.

Don’t Wait—Early Care Matters

If you have pelvic pain, fever, or new discharge, we’ll evaluate you the same day and start treatment to protect your health and fertility.

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