What is pelvic peritonitis?

Pelvic peritonitis is inflammation and infection of the peritoneum, the membrane that lines the abdomen in the pelvic area. Pelvic peritonitis occurs most often as a complication of an infection of the fallopian tubes.

Symptoms of peritonitis include:

• Swelling of the belly, which may feel hard (rigid).
• Severe pain and tenderness in the belly that may get worse when moving, coughing, or pressing on the belly. The pain sometimes goes up into the shoulder.
• Fever and chills.
• A fast pulse.
• Rapid breathing.
• Confusion or feeling less alert.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Diarrhea.

A person with these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention. Without treatment, the illness rapidly worsens and can become life-threatening.