Salmonella: A Hidden Cause of Pelvic Infections

Author: Jessica Lloyd
Senior Naturopath | BHSc(N) | ISSVD, ISSWSH, BSSM, ATMS

Last reviewed: November 17, 2025

Salmonella species infections can sometimes mimic pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which is a condition typically associated with sexually transmitted infections.

We tend to think of Salmonella as something we get from chicken (food poisoning), but Salmonella can infect nearly any tissue in the human body. It is an opportunistic pathogen.

The most common causes of pelvic salmonellosis are Salmonella panama and Salmonella enteritidis. Salmonella species can colonise the cells of the fallopian tubes, and may be passed via the blood or the bowels, with relapses and incomplete cure common.

Salmonella pelvic inflammatory disease has been reported in multiple countries.

Symptoms of Salmonella-driven pelvic infection

Lower abdominal pain
Fever
Discharge
Bowel symptoms (diarrhoea)

Treatment for Salmonella in the pelvis

Thorough testing and prompt treatment are important, as salmonella infections can be dangerous.

Biomedical treatments include ciprofloxacin for non-typhoidal salmonellosis. Quinolones are not likely to be effective. If you are at risk of antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria, non-antibiotic treatment options may be more suitable.

Non-antibiotic treatments include powerful herbal medicine, carefully administered by a trained herbalist.

Seek help from your doctor and an experienced practitioner who can guide you through treatment options.

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