Genesee County Health Department

Better Life Through Better Health

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) occurs when bacteria spread from a woman’s vagina or cervix into her uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes. Over half of all PID infections are caused by gonorrhea or chlamydial infections. Other types of bacteria can cause PID too.

In the early stages of infection, there may be no signs or symptoms. Some women with PID may go undiagnosed and untreated. As the infection spreads, there may be lower abdominal pain, bleeding between menstrual periods, increased vaginal discharge, chills and fever or painful urination.

If detected early, women may be treated at home with antibiotics. In later stages, the infection may be serious enough to go into the hospital. The infection can be treated and cured, but there may be damage to reproductive organs that cannot be repaired. There can be long term health effects from PID. The sooner the infection is treated the better a woman’s health will be. Common problems are infertility, tubal pregnancy, chronic pelvic pain and painful intercourse.

PID can be prevented by avoiding sexually transmitted infections (STI). Abstinence, using latex condoms and limiting the number of sexual partners can also help prevent an STI. If you suspect a problem or have symptoms, go to a health clinic or doctor for an exam and testing. Get routine STI testing if you are sexually active and if you or your partner has other sexual partners. Follow medical advice if being treated for an infection. Do not douche, as this can push bacteria into the uterus.

If you have questions, contact the Genesee County Health Department at (810) 257-3440.