Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a common condition, occurring around the world and in varying degrees of severity. Diagnosis and treatment place a burden on health services and economies on a global scale. The disease, if left untreated, can lead to several complications, some of which can have long-lasting effects and a huge impact on the woman’s health and quality of life. This article gives an overview of signs and symptoms, treatment and complications, with a view to helping nurses and non-medical prescribers make an impact on outcomes for women affected by this unpleasant disease.