About Us | Privacy | Site Map
Font Size
A
A
A

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (cont.)

When to Seek Medical Care

If you are experiencing the following symptoms, you should see your health care provider:

  • Abdominal pain that does not go away

  • Irregular vaginal bleeding

  • Foul-smelling vaginal discharge

  • Unusual vaginal discharge

  • Fever, nausea, vomiting

Given the long-term complications PID can cause, such as infertility and ectopic pregnancy, it is recommended that you seek immediate medical attention if you have any of these symptoms:

  • Lower abdominal pain or tenderness

  • Fever greater than 101°F (38.3°C)

  • Abnormal or foul-smelling vaginal discharge

Adult women with PID are either closely monitored or admitted to the hospital. More aggressive treatment may take place in the hospital for adolescents, who are at a much higher risk of not following treatment plans and of having complications.

You may be admitted to the hospital if any of the following are true:

  • The diagnosis is unclear.

  • Ectopic pregnancy or appendicitis cannot be ruled out.

  • You are pregnant.

  • An abscess (an infection) is suspected.

  • You are acutely ill or cannot manage your illness at home.


Next: Exams and Tests »

Viewer Comments & Reviews

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease - Describe Your Symptoms

The eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:

Please describe your symptoms of pelvic inflammatory disease.

Anonymously share your comment to help others. Viewer Comments FAQs
See 5 Viewer Comments & Reviews

Submit Your Review


Printer-Friendly Format  |  Email to a Friend

Women's Health

Find out what women really need.

Are You Depressed? Take the Quiz




Read What Your Physician is Reading on eMedicine

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease »

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an inflammatory disorder of the uterus, fallopian tubes, and adjacent pelvic structures.

Read More on eMedicine »

Medical Dictionary