Endometritis Health Article

Definition

Endometritis is an inflammation or irritation of the lining of the uterus (the endometrium).

See also:

• Endometriosis
• Pelvic inflammatory disease

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Endometritis is caused by infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, tuberculosis, or mixtures of normal vaginal bacteria. Endometritis is more likely to occur after miscarriage or childbirth, especially after a long labor or c-section.

A medical procedure that involves entering the uterus through the cervix will increase the risk of developing endometritis. This includes a D and C, hysteroscopy, and placement of an intrauterine device (IUD).

Endometritis can occur at the same time as other pelvic infections such as acute salpingitis, acute cervicitis, and many sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Symptoms

• Abdominal distention or swelling
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Abnormal vaginal discharge
• Discomfort with bowel movement (constipation may occur)
• Fever (100 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit)
• General discomfort, uneasiness, or ill feeling (malaise)
• Lower abdominal or pelvic pain (uterine pain)

Signs and tests

The health care provider will perform a physical exam and a pelvic exam. The lower abdomen may be tender. Bowel sounds may be decreased. A pelvic exam may show the uterus and cervix is tender. There may be cervical discharge.

The following tests may be performed:

• Cultures from the cervix for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and other organisms
• Endometrial biopsy
• ESR (sedimentation rate)
• Laparoscopy
• WBC (white blood count)
• Wet prep (microscopic exam of any discharge)

Treatment

Antibiotics are used to treat and prevent complications of endometritis. If you've been prescribed antibiotics following a gynecological procedure, it is very important to finish all the medication and follow up with your health care provider.

You may need to be admitted to a hospital if you have a complicated case of endometritis, such as those that involve serious symptoms, or which occur after childbirth.

Other treatments may involve:

• Fluids through a vein (by IV)
• Rest

Sexual partners may also need to be treated if the condition is caused by a sexually transmitted disease.