How to test yourself for PID

1. What is PID (Pelvic Inflammatory Disease)?

PID is an infection of a woman's reproductive organs, including the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. This usually occurs when bacteria move up from a woman's vagina or cervix. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are the most common causes, with chlamydia and gonorrhea being at the top of the list.

Key facts:

PID can be mild or severe. Sometimes there are no symptoms.

If PID is left untreated, complications such as infertility, chronic pelvic pain, and ectopic pregnancy may arise.

2. Symptoms of PID

Some common signs and symptoms include:

Lower abdominal or pelvic pain

Abnormal vaginal discharge, yellow/green in colour and possibly odorous

Painful urination

Pain during sexual intercourse

Fever or chills

Irregular menstrual bleeding

Important: Some women with PID have no symptoms, which is why regular STI testing is important.

3. Can You Test Yourself for PID?

Short answer: No, you cannot reliably test yourself at home for PID. It requires a medical evaluation.

Why is self-testing limited?

PID affects internal organs; you cannot see or feel the infection directly.

The symptoms may imitate other conditions such as a urinary tract infection, appendicitis, or ovarian cysts.

What you can do at home:

Monitor for warning signs listed above.

Monitor symptoms such as pelvic pain, discharge, fever, or menstrual changes.

Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms manifest.

Medical tests a doctor may perform:

Pelvic exam to check for tenderness

Cervical swabs for chlamydia and gonorrhea

Blood or urine tests

Ultrasound for the detection of abscesses

4. Prevention of PID

Prevention of PID is primarily prevention of the infections causing it:

Safe sex practices

Use condoms consistently and correctly.

Limit sexual partners

Regular STI testing

Especially if you are sexually active or if you have new partners

Early treatment of STIs

Prompt treatment for chlamydia or gonorrhea prevents PID

Avoid douching

Douching can disrupt vaginal bacteria and raise the risk for infection.

Partner treatment

If you have an STI, make sure your sexual partner is treated

Summary:

PID is a serious infection of the female reproductive organs, often caused by STIs.

You cannot reliably self-diagnose PID.

Watch for symptoms, but see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Prevention focuses on safe sex, STI testing, and early treatment.