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Every year, more than 750,000 women in the United States experience an acute episode of pelvic inflammatory disease. Many of them wait too long to seek help - either because the symptoms feel manageable, or because they simply do not recognize what is happening inside their bodies.
That delay can cost them their fertility.
PID is one of the most serious infections that can affect the female reproductive system. The good news? When caught early and treated correctly, it is highly manageable. This guide covers everything you need to know - from recognizing pelvic inflammatory disease symptoms to a practical do-it-yourself self-care plan you can start today alongside medical treatment.
What Is Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)?
Pelvic inflammatory disease is an infection of the uterus, ovaries, and other female reproductive organs that causes scarring in these organs. This scarring can lead to infertility, ectopic pregnancy, chronic pelvic pain, abscesses, and other serious problems. PID is the most common preventable cause of infertility in the United States.
In simple terms, PID happens when bacteria - most often from a sexually transmitted infection - travel upward from the vagina or cervix into the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries, triggering a serious infection that can permanently damage reproductive tissue if left untreated.
How Common Is PID? The Numbers Every Woman Should Know
Each year in the United States, it is estimated that more than 750,000 women experience an episode of acute PID. As many as 15 percent of these women may become infertile as a result.
Studies found that 1 in 8 women who had PID experienced difficulty getting pregnant, and up to 1 in 10 ultimately received a diagnosis of infertility.
These numbers are sobering - and entirely preventable with early awareness and prompt action.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Symptoms: What Does PID Feel Like?
One of the most dangerous aspects of PID is that you might not notice any symptoms early on. But as the infection gets worse, symptoms develop and intensify.
Mild to Moderate Symptoms
Watch for these common early pelvic inflammatory disease symptoms:
- Lower abdominal pain or pelvic pain - the most frequently reported symptom, often a dull, persistent ache
- Unusual vaginal discharge - often yellow or green, with a foul odor
- Pain during sexual intercourse - particularly deep penetration
- Irregular menstrual bleeding or spotting between periods
- Painful or burning urination
- Low-grade fever or general feeling of being unwell
- Nausea or vomiting in moderate cases
Severe Symptoms That Need Emergency Care
Some cases of PID escalate rapidly. Go to the emergency room immediately if you experience:
- High fever (above 101°F / 38.3°C) with chills
- Severe lower abdominal pain that gets worse quickly
- Fainting or extreme weakness
- Vomiting that prevents you from keeping fluids down
In some cases, PID can bring on more intense symptoms and require an emergency room visit.