When to worry about vaginal discharge with pelvic inflammatory disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease is inflammation in the upper reproductive organs, often following an infection that has travelled from the cervix. Discharge may occur alongside lower abdominal pain, pain during sex, bleeding between periods, or pain when urinating. Discharge by itself does not show whether pelvic inflammatory disease is present.

Because symptoms can be mild, do not wait for severe pain before arranging care. A clinician may examine you, test for infections, and consider pregnancy testing or other checks based on your symptoms.

Contact a clinician promptly if discharge is new and you also have pelvic discomfort or bleeding. Avoid sex until you have been assessed and follow treatment instructions closely if antibiotics are prescribed. Tell the clinician about possible sexual exposure, previous pelvic infections, and any chance of pregnancy.

Seek same-day care for discharge with pelvic pain, fever, pain during sex, vomiting, or feeling unwell. Seek urgent help for severe or rapidly worsening pain, faintness, heavy bleeding, or pregnancy with pain or bleeding. Delay can allow inflammation to worsen and may affect future reproductive health.

Could this be pelvic inflammatory disease or another cause? Which tests are needed? Do I need treatment today? Should my partner be assessed? What warning signs mean I should return urgently?