What does vaginal discharge feel like with pelvic inflammatory disease?

Discharge linked with pelvic inflammatory disease may be heavier, thicker, or have an unpleasant smell compared with your usual discharge. It may occur with dull or cramping pain low in the abdomen, pain during sex, burning when urinating, bleeding between periods, or bleeding after sex. Fever, chills, nausea, or feeling unwell can also occur. Because different infections and vaginal conditions overlap, discharge cannot identify the location or cause of an infection by itself.

Arrange a prompt medical assessment if discharge changes and you have pelvic pain, fever, bleeding, or pain during sex. A clinician may examine your abdomen and pelvis, take samples for infection testing, and decide whether treatment should start promptly. Do not douche or use leftover antibiotics. Avoid sex until you have received medical advice, particularly if an infection is suspected.

Seek urgent care for severe or increasing pelvic pain, high fever, repeated vomiting, fainting, confusion, or marked weakness. Pregnancy or possible pregnancy with pelvic pain, bleeding, or fever also needs prompt assessment. Early treatment matters because untreated upper reproductive-tract infection can lead to continuing pelvic problems.

Ask whether your symptoms fit pelvic inflammatory disease, which tests are needed, whether a partner needs evaluation, and what improvement to expect after treatment begins. Ask when to return if pain, fever, or discharge does not settle.