Endometritis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
Endometritis is a condition that affects the lining of the uterus, called the endometrium. It is caused by an infection that leads to inflammation and irritation of the endometrium. Endometritis can be acute or chronic, depending on how long it lasts and how often it occurs. Acute endometritis usually happens after childbirth, miscarriage, or a procedure that involves the cervix or uterus. Chronic endometritis is more common in people who have sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or tuberculosis. Endometritis can cause pain, fever, bleeding, and discharge. It can also lead to complications such as infertility, ectopic pregnancy, or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Endometritis can be treated with antibiotics, but it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the reproductive organs.
Causes of Endometritis
Endometritis is caused by a bacterial infection that reaches the uterus through the cervix. The bacteria can come from different sources, such as:
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STIs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, which can spread from the vagina to the uterus during sexual intercourse.
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Tuberculosis, which can affect the lungs and other organs, including the uterus.
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Normal vaginal bacteria, which can change after childbirth, miscarriage, or a procedure that involves the cervix or uterus, such as hysteroscopy, dilation and curettage (D&C), or intrauterine device (IUD) insertion.
Symptoms of Endometritis
Endometritis does not always cause symptoms, but when it does, they may include:
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Fever
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Pelvic pain
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Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge
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Constipation or pain with bowel movements
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Swelling in the abdomen
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General feeling of sickness
The symptoms of endometritis may vary depending on whether it is acute or chronic. Acute endometritis usually causes more severe symptoms that start suddenly and last for a short time. Chronic endometritis may cause milder symptoms that last for a long time or recur frequently.
Diagnosis of Endometritis
To diagnose endometritis, a healthcare provider will perform a physical exam and a pelvic exam. They may also order some tests, such as:
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Testing fluid from the vagina for bacterial or STIs
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Taking a tissue sample from the uterus and testing it for bacteria (biopsy)
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Performing a laparoscopy to get a closer look at the uterus
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Doing blood tests to check for signs of infection or inflammation
Treatment of Endometritis
The main treatment for endometritis is antibiotics, which can kill the bacteria that cause the infection. The type and duration of antibiotics may depend on the cause and severity of the infection, as well as the presence of any complications. Some people may need to take antibiotics by mouth, while others may need to receive them through an intravenous (IV) line in the hospital.
In addition to antibiotics, some people may need other treatments, such as:
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Pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to reduce fever and discomfort
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Fluids and electrolytes, to prevent dehydration and restore balance in the body
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Surgery, to remove any infected tissue or foreign objects, such as an IUD, from the uterus
Prevention of Endometritis
Endometritis can be prevented by reducing the risk of infection in the uterus. Some preventive measures include:
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Practicing safe sex, such as using condoms, to avoid STIs
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Getting tested and treated for STIs, especially before and after pregnancy or a procedure that involves the cervix or uterus
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Following the instructions of the healthcare provider after childbirth, miscarriage, or a procedure that involves the cervix or uterus, such as keeping the area clean and dry, avoiding tampons and douching, and reporting any signs of infection
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Seeking medical attention as soon as possible if experiencing any symptoms of endometritis
