PID can be caused by many different bacteria, including chlamydia and gonorrhea. It occurs when these bacteria move up from the vagina or cervix into the uterus and other reproductive organs.
Diagnosis is usually based on the presence of typical symptoms when other serious conditions (like appendicitis or ectopic pregnancy) can be excluded. In rare cases, a health care provider may use a laparoscope to view the fallopian tubes to confirm inflammation.
Because diagnosis is based on symptoms and patient history, there is no specific timing for test results.