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.