Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

Pelvic inflammatory disease is an infection of the uterus, fallopian tubes and/or ovaries, usually caused by bacteria ascending from the vagina or cervix, including sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea, though it can also follow childbirth, miscarriage, or gynaecological procedures. Symptoms range from mild pelvic pain to fever and severe illness, but PID can also be silent. PID is a major preventable cause of tubal-factor infertility, hydrosalpinx, pelvic adhesions and ectopic pregnancy in India, which is why prompt diagnosis and treatment of genital infections, and treatment of partners where relevant, matters for future fertility. Women with a history of PID who are having fertility difficulty are usually assessed with tubal imaging (HSG or laparoscopy) as part of their work-up.

Also known as: PID, pelvic infection

Last reviewed: 9 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.