Overview
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a serious infection in your uterus, fallopian tubes and/or ovaries. It affects women and people assigned female at birth (AFAB). PID develops when certain types of bacteria spread from your vagina to your reproductive organs. Bacteria from untreated sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are the most common cause of PID. However, bacteria normally found in your vagina can also cause PID.
When you have PID, you may feel pain in your lower abdomen (belly) or pelvis. You may also have unusual discharge (leaking) from your vagina. Severe PID can cause permanent damage your reproductive organs and prevent you from getting pregnant. Getting tested and treated for STIs is the best way to prevent PID.
How do you get PID?
Most people get PID through unprotected sex. Sex lets bacteria enter your reproductive system, where they can infect your organs.
How common is pelvic inflammatory disease?
Each year, more than 1 million women and people AFAB in the U.S. get PID. And more than 100,000 people become infertile because of it. PID occurs most frequently in women and people AFAB between 15 and 25 years old.
Symptoms
When to see a doctor
Complications
- High blood pressure.
- Diabetes.
- Heart failure.
- Some types of heart valve disease.
Prevention
- Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
- Don't smoke or use tobacco.
- Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
- Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
- Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Reduce and manage stress.
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