How do I get MPC?
You can get MPC through unprotected sexual contact (oral, vaginal, or anal sex without a condom or other barrier method) with someone infected with germs that can cause MPC.
You can infect others right after you come in contact with the germs that cause MPC. You can pass on the germs to others without knowing it.
How do I prevent MPC?
When you’re sexually active, the best way to prevent MPC is to use condoms or other barrier method, for oral, vaginal, and anal sex.
Don’t have any sexual contact if you or your partner(s) have symptoms of an STI or may have been exposed to an STI. See a doctor or go to an STI clinic for testing.
Get STI testing every 3 to 6 months if you have:
- a new partner
- more than one partner
- anonymous partners
any symptoms
How do I know if I have MPC?
If you have MPC, you might have:
- vaginal discharge
- bleeding between periods or after sex
- pain in the abdomen
- pain during or after vaginal sex
The best way to find out if you have MPC is to see your nurse or doctor and get tested. You will have a pelvic exam and be tested for STIs.
Is MPC harmful?
If MPC isn’t treated, it can spread up into the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. This can cause a serious infection called
pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID can cause pain in the lower abdomen, infertility, and increase your risk of tubal pregnancies.
These effects can be prevented if you get
early STI testing and treatment.
How is MPC treated?
MPC is treated with antibiotics.
Your partner(s) needs to be tested and treated even if there are no symptoms.
You can get re-infected if you have unprotected sex with someone before they are treated.
If you still have symptoms 3 to 4 weeks after taking antibiotics, see your nurse or doctor.
When can I have sex again?
It will take 1 week for the antibiotic to get rid of the infection. Don’t have unprotected sex (oral, vaginal, or anal sex without a condom or other barrier method) for
7 days after you and your partner(s) are treated. The best protection is
not to have sex (oral, vaginal, or anal) for at least 7 days.
If you still have symptoms, don’t have any sexual contact.
Where can I find more information?
If you have questions, need to find a clinic near you, or want more information, call Health Link at 811 anytime, day or night, to talk to a registered nurse.
