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Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

What is pelvic inflammatory disease?

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of the upper female reproductive organs: the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. It usually starts when bacteria from the vagina or cervix travel upward. PID can be mild or severe, and it is one of the conditions (together with cystitis) that Eunice Women's Clinic evaluates and treats.

What are the symptoms of PID?

• Pain or tenderness in the lower abdomen or pelvis, often on both sides
• Pain during sex, felt deep inside
• Abnormal vaginal discharge
• Bleeding between periods or after sex
• Fever, chills, or feeling generally unwell
• Pain when urinating

Symptoms can be mild and easy to overlook. Some people have PID with very few symptoms, but damage to the fallopian tubes can still happen.

What causes PID?

Many cases are linked to sexually transmitted infections, especially chlamydia, gonorrhea, and Mycoplasma genitalium. Bacteria normally found in the vagina, including those associated with bacterial vaginosis, can also be involved. Risk is higher with a new partner or multiple partners, a past STI or PID, and in the first few weeks after an IUD insertion or a procedure on the uterus.

When should I see a doctor?

See a doctor as soon as possible, ideally the same day, if you have lower abdominal or pelvic pain together with fever, abnormal discharge, or pain during sex. Delay increases the risk of complications. Go to an emergency room or call 119 if you have severe abdominal pain, high fever, vomiting, fainting, or if you could be pregnant, because ectopic pregnancy and appendicitis can cause similar symptoms.

Why does early treatment matter?

PID can cause scarring in the fallopian tubes. Possible long-term effects include difficulty getting pregnant, a higher risk of ectopic pregnancy, and long-lasting pelvic pain. The risk rises with each episode and with delays in treatment.

How is PID diagnosed at the clinic?

There is no single test for PID. The doctor makes the diagnosis from your symptoms and a pelvic exam, looking for tenderness when the cervix, uterus, or ovaries are gently moved. Tests help confirm the cause and rule out other conditions:

• Swabs for an STD PCR panel(chlamydia, gonorrhea, mycoplasma, trichomonas)
• A pregnancy test to rule out pregnancy and ectopic pregnancy
• A transvaginal ultrasound to look for an abscess, fluid, or other causes such as an ovarian cyst
• Blood tests for signs of infection when needed

How is PID treated?

PID is treated with a combination of antibiotics that cover the most likely bacteria. Treatment usually starts on the day of diagnosis, without waiting for test results. Most people with mild to moderate PID can be treated with tablets (sometimes with one injection) at home. Important points:

• Finish the full course of antibiotics.
• A follow-up visit within a few days is recommended to make sure you are improving.
• Recent sexual partners should be tested and treated, and sex should be avoided until everyone has finished treatment.
• If you have an IUD, it can often stay in place; the doctor will advise.

If PID is severe, you are pregnant, there may be an abscess, or you do not improve with tablets, the doctor will refer you to a partner hospital for further care. Individual results vary.

How can I lower my risk of PID?

• Use condoms with new or casual partners.
• Have regular STI testing, especially if you are under 25 or have new partners.
• Get tested and treated early if you have symptoms, and make sure partners are treated.
• Get STI testing before an IUD insertion if recommended.

Getting care in English near Seongsu Station

If you have pelvic pain with discharge or fever, contact the clinic promptly so you can be seen as soon as possible. Dr. Eun Mi-na, a female board-certified OB-GYN, sees patients in English at Eunice Women's Clinic.

•  Address: 8F Bethel Place, 120 Achasan-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, across the crosswalk from Seongsu Station (Line 2) Exit 3, about a 1-minute walk
• Mon, Wed, Fri: 10:00–19:00
• Tue, Thu: 10:00–20:00 (evening clinic)
• Sat: 10:00–14:00 (no lunch break)
• Weekday lunch break: 13:30–14:30. Closed Sundays and Korean public holidays

You can book through Naver Booking, the KakaoTalk channel (search “유니스산부인과” or Eunice), or by phone at +82-2-467-3100. Booking is recommended; call or message to check same-day availability. See directions from Seongsu Station.

Frequently asked questions

Can PID be treated without going to the hospital?

Yes. Most mild to moderate PID is treated with antibiotic tablets at home, with a follow-up visit. Hospital care may be needed if symptoms are severe, you are pregnant, there is an abscess, or tablets do not work.

Will PID affect my fertility?

PID can scar the fallopian tubes and make pregnancy harder, and the risk increases with repeated episodes and delayed treatment. Early treatment lowers this risk. Many people who were treated for PID later have healthy pregnancies.

Can I get PID from an IUD?

The risk of PID is slightly higher in the first few weeks after insertion, mainly if an STI is present at the time. After that, the risk is low. STI testing before insertion may be recommended.

How long does it take to feel better?

Most people start to feel better within two to three days of starting antibiotics. If you do not improve within that time, contact the doctor, as a change in treatment or further tests may be needed.

Does my partner need treatment if I have PID?

Yes. Recent sexual partners should be tested and treated, even without symptoms, to prevent reinfection. Avoid sex until you and your partners have finished treatment.

Related pages

•  STD Testing
• Transvaginal Ultrasound
• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• Pelvic Pain
• Fertility Consultation

This page provides general health information for patients and does not replace a consultation with a doctor. Individual results vary. If you have severe pain, heavy bleeding, fainting or other urgent symptoms, call 119 or go to the nearest emergency room. Page updated September 2026.