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Pelvic inflammatory disease

Also known as PID

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is inflammation or infection of the reproductive system in the pelvis. PID can be caused by STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea and mycoplasma genitalium. PID only affects people with a vagina and uterus.

Quick facts

  • Chlamydia and gonorrhoea are the most common cause of PID
  • PID is common and often does not cause symptoms
  • Using condoms with any new partner and regular STI testing can help prevent PID
  • If left untreated, PID can scar the fallopian tubes and cause infertility
  • PID is rare in people who aren't sexually active, don't have menstrual periods or do not have a uterus or ovaries. 

Download a fact sheet (PDF):

What is this?

PID is an infection or inflammation of the organs in the pelvis, including the uterus and fallopian tubes.

How do you get it?

PID is usually caused by bacterial infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and mycoplasma genitalium.

Sometimes PID develops after pelvic procedures such as pregnancy termination.

What are the symptoms?

Many people don’t have any signs or symptoms. Those that do have symptoms may have:

  • abnormal vaginal discharge
  • unusual bleeding
  • pelvic or lower abdominal pain
  • pain with sex
  • increased period pain

How do you test for it?

PID is diagnosed by a health practitioner using:

  • your history of symptoms
  • examination
  • tests

The tests can include an STI test, the exclusion of pregnancy and sometimes an ultrasound.

How is it treated?

PID is treated with a combination of antibiotics over several weeks.

If your partner is diagnosed with PID, you should be tested for STIs including chlamydia, gonorrhoea and mycoplasma genitalium.

Are there any complications if not treated?

Untreated PID may cause chronic pelvic pain and can damage the fallopian tubes causing difficulties getting pregnant or an ectopic pregnancy.

Studies show that after one episode of PID you may have decreased your chances of a successful pregnancy by around 10%. After two or three episodes, this figure rises to 50%.

How can I protect myself?

The best way to protect yourself from PID is to:

  • use a condom or dams when you have sex with new partners
  • have regular sexual health check-ups

Where can I get help?

How urgent are my symptoms?
What tests do I need?
Where can I be tested?
Related fact sheets
Chlamydia Gonorrhoea Mycoplasma genitalium
Related links

Disclaimer

This fact sheet provides general sexual health information and is not intended to replace the need for a consultation with your doctor.

If you have concerns about your health, you should seek advice from your doctor.

If you require urgent care, you should go to your nearest Emergency Department or call 000.