Nutrition in the prevention and treatment of pelvic inflammatory disease: a review

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a common gynecological condition that causes inflammation in the upper reproductive tract. It affects millions of women globally each year and can lead to long-term complications such as infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and chronic pelvic pain. Although conventional PID treatments rely mainly on antibiotics, nutrition is crucial for preventing and treating PID because it can modulate immune responses, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue repair. This review aims to summarize the link between nutrition and PID by analyzing how dietary antioxidants such as vitamins C and E and polyphenols protect against oxidative stress and inhibit proinflammatory mediators in pelvic tissues. This study also explores the roles of trace minerals including magnesium, phosphorus, and copper in supporting immune cell function and maintaining mucosal barrier integrity. Other nutrients, including choline and dietary fiber, are also discussed. By combining clinical and preclinical research, this review emphasizes the potential of targeted nutrition as an adjunct to conventional PID management. Finally, it highlights research gaps, such as the lack of large-scale randomized controlled trials for optimal nutrient dosages, and suggests future directions for developing evidence-based nutritional guidelines for women at risk of or affected by PID.