Endometritis
Definition
Endometritis is an inflammation or irritation of the lining oftheuterus (endometrium).
See also: Pelvic inflammatory disease
Causes
The usual cause of endometritis is infection, such as
- Chlamydia
- Gonococcal endometritis
- Salpingitis
- Tuberculous endometritis
- Purulent endometritis
Endometritis may also occur from:
- Childbirth
- Abortion (therapeutic, elective, or spontaneous)
- Intrauterine device (IUD) insertion
- Surgery or other gynecological procedures that require insertion of medical instruments
Other risk factors may include a history of acute salpingitis, acute cervicitis, and other pelvic infections, including manysexually transmitted diseases.
Symptoms
- General discomfort, uneasiness, or ill feeling (malaise)
- Fever(ranging from 100 to104 degrees Fahrenheit)
- Lower abdominal or pelvic pain (uterine pain)
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Abnormal vaginal discharge
- Increased amount
- Unusual color, consistency, or odor
- Discomfort with bowel movement (constipation may occur)
- Abdominal distention
Exams and Tests
The health care provider will perform a physical exam. Exam of the lower abdomen may show abdominal tenderness. Bowel sounds may be decreased. A pelvic exam may reveal a tender uterus and cervix. There may be cervical discharge.
The following tests may be performed:
- WBC (white blood count)
- ESR (sed rate)
- Endocervical cultures for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and other organisms
- Endometrial biopsy
- Laparoscopy
Treatment
Complicated cases (those occurring after childbirth, or those involvingsevere infection) may require the patient to be admitted toa hospital. The patient may receive intravenous antibiotics, followed by antibiotics taken by mouth.
Rest and hydration are important. Treatment for sexualpartner(s), when appropriate, and the use of condoms throughout the course of treatment, are essential.
Outlook (Prognosis)
Most cases of endometritis go away with antibiotics. Untreated endometritis can lead to more serious infection and complications with pelvic organs, reproduction, and general health.
Possible Complications
- Pelvic peritonitis (generalized pelvic infection)
- Pelvic or uterine abscess formation
- Septicemia
- Septic shock
- Infertility
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms of endometritis occur (particularly if within several days after childbirth, abortion, or IUD insertion).
Prevention
- "Safer" sexual practices
- Early diagnosis and adequate treatment (for partners also) of sexually transmitted diseases
- Finish allmedications and follow up with your health care provider after any gynecological procedures
The risk of endometritis is reduced by the careful, sterile techniquesused by appropriate providers in performing deliveries, abortions, IUD insertions, and other gynecological procedures.
References
Faro S. Postpartum endometritis. Clin Perinatol. 2005; 32(3): 803-14.
Stenchever A. Comprehensive Gynecology. 4th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2001:708.
Reviewed By: Melanie N. Smith, M.D., Ph.D., Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
