Endometritis - Symptoms, Risk factors and Treatment

Endometritis is a condition in which inflammation of the endometrium- the inner lining of the uterus occurs, mostly due to infections. It is not a life-threatening condition, but if left untreated, it can become fatal. Healthcare providers generally prescribe antibiotics for its treatment.

It is a different condition from that of endometriosis that is an often painful disorder of the female reproductive system in which the tissue resembling the one that lines inside of the uterus grows outside it. The inner lining of the uterus is known as the endometrium. When it grows outside the uterus, it is abnormal and can become painful at times. Moreover, it may hinder conception as well. It can involve the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and tissue lining of the pelvis.

Endometritis usually occurs due to conditions like chlamydia, tuberculosis, or gonorrhea. Moreover, it may occur after a miscarriage, abortion, prolonged labor, or a cesarean section. If left untreated, it can lead to various complications of the reproductive system and in conception too.

Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of endometriosis are;

Abnormal vaginal discharge
Constipation
Discomfort when having a bowel movement
Fever
Abdominal swelling
Abnormal vaginal bleeding
A general feeling of sickness
Pain in the pelvis
Pain in the lower abdominal area
Pain in the rectal area

Causes

Sexually transmitted diseases-STDs
Infections due to the mixture of normal vaginal bacteria
Tuberculosis

Under normal conditions, all the women have some bacteria in their vaginal fluid that helps in keeping their environment healthy. But at times, when bacterial load surpasses the normal level it can lead to infections of the reproductive system.

Risk factors

Endometriosis can occur if you have recently undergone a medical procedure. If the instruments used in it are not autoclaved and sterilized properly, it can cause contamination and hence infection. It can occur after medical procedures like;

Cesarean delivery
Long labor
D and C (dilation and curettage)
Endometrial biopsy
Hysteroscopy
Placement of an intrauterine device (IUD)

Diagnosis

To finalize the diagnosis, the healthcare providers may conduct more than one type of evaluation. However, your symptoms play a major role in finalizing the diagnosis. A culture of your vaginal fluid is a must to get done. In that sample, the healthcare providers will check your vaginal fluid for any growth like that of chlamydia, gonorrhea, or any other. Moreover, they may order for tests like;

Endometrial biopsy
Laparoscopy
Complete blood count
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate

Treatment

The first-line treatment for endometritis is antibiotics and over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen. Moreover, you should rest and drink plenty of water. Maintain your vaginal hygiene too. During periods keep changing sanitary pads frequently. Do not use them for a long time, even if they do not have a stain. If the infection is severe you may need to get admitted to the hospital and get intravenous injections.