Overview

Abnormal vaginal bleeding with fever may be caused by an infection in the pelvic organs (Figure 1). During your period, bacteria can travel up the vagina into the uterus and fallopian tubes and cause an infection. This is more common during menstruation but can occur at any time during your menstrual cycle.

Symptoms of pelvic infection may include:

• Pelvic pain, especially during intercourse.
• Bad-smelling vaginal discharge.
• Bleeding between periods.
• Fever.

Pelvic infections are usually caused by bacteria. It is important to treat pelvic infections right away to:

• Prevent scarring of the fallopian tubes. Scarring of the fallopian tubes increases the risk of ectopic pregnancy and can cause infertility.
• Prevent infection from spreading to other parts of the body.
• Reduce the risk of passing the infection to your partner.

Sexually active women, especially those who have more than one sex partner, are more likely to have pelvic infections. And the risk for infection is increased if you:

• Have had an intrauterine device (IUD) inserted within the past 3 months.
• Have a previous history of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
• Have had sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
• Have cancer or receive chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
• Have diabetes.
• Are HIV-positive.
• Use steroids.

Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare and serious condition that has been linked to tampon use. An important symptom of TSS is a rash that looks like a sunburn that develops within 2 days of the onset of a fever of 38.9 °C (102 °F) or higher. Other symptoms may include headache, muscle aches, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, profound weakness, confusion, and signs of shock. Immediate medical care is needed if toxic shock syndrome is suspected.

If you have symptoms of a pelvic infection, do not have sexual intercourse until you see your doctor. This will reduce the risk of spreading a possible infection to your partner.

Figure 1 - Female reproductive system

The female reproductive system produces hormones and makes it possible to get pregnant and give birth. It consists of two ovaries, two fallopian tubes, the uterus, the cervix, the vagina, and the vulva. The ovaries store and release eggs (ova). When an egg is released (ovulation), it moves through a fallopian tube and into the uterus. A pregnancy can occur if an egg is fertilized and attaches to, or implants in, the lining of the uterus. The uterus is where the fertilized egg will grow during a pregnancy. If a fertilized egg doesn't implant, the uterus sheds its lining as a menstrual period.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.