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Step 1
Identify pelvic inflammatory disease early by keeping annual and recommended appointments with a gynecologist. Discuss any changes in your reproductive health and risks for STDs. A health care professional may require different tests to diagnose pelvic inflammatory disease. These may include a physical evaluation, ultrasound of the reproductive organs and/or surgical examination by laparoscopy.
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Step 2
Look for symptoms of chlamydia to best identify pelvic inflammatory disease early, as it is a common cause. Often few to no symptoms are apparent with PID until later in the disease process. Consequently, it is crucial to see a health professional promptly if there is a concern. Delays in diagnosis and treatment lead to scarring, permanent damage and other complications.
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Step 3
Consider the possibility of pelvic inflammatory disease if you are at risk for an STD and experience abnormal discharge, pain during intercourse, lower abdominal or pelvic pain, and/or irregular bleeding. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting or fever. Several other conditions may produce these symptoms and other symptoms may be present. A physician will need to evaluate your condition further to determine your risk.
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Step 4
Get tested for chlamydia if you are at risk for this STD to better prevent or help identify pelvic inflammatory disease. The CDC recommends annual testing for sexually active women age 25 or younger as well as for older women who have new or varying sex partners.
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Step 5
Be aware of signs of gonorrhea for yourself and sexual partners as a potential risk for pelvic inflammatory disease. While women tend to have mild or no symptoms, men often show signs of visible infection, including pain, discharge or swelling of the reproductive organs. Some men complain of painful urination. If a sexual partner is infected, STD testing is essential whether or not a condom is used.
