Pelvic inflammatory disease

Inflammation of the womb, fallopian tube or ovary is an infection in the pelvis. Prompt antibiotic treatment reduces the risk of an abscess, long-term pain, an ectopic pregnancy and difficulty becoming pregnant.

• Pain low in the abdomen or pelvis, often on both sides, is a common symptom.
• Increased vaginal discharge, a different smell or pus-like discharge may occur.
• Take all antibiotics at exactly the agreed times and do not skip doses.
• Do not have vaginal, anal or oral sex until the course is complete, symptoms have gone and partners receiving treatment have finished it.
• Make an appointment the same day for new lower abdominal pain with unusual discharge, bleeding, fever or pain during sex.
• For urgent GP care outside office hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediate threat to life.