What Are the Treatments for Chronic Endometritis?

Endometritis is an inflammation of the uterus lining, according to the National Institute of Health. The disease is associated with pelvic inflammatory disease or PID, which also inflames the uterus wall along with other female reproduction organs such as the fallopian tubes. Endometritis may cause serious medical conditions if left untreated.

Causes

• Infectious bacteria move upward through the vagina entering the cervix and uterus resulting in infection and inflammation of the uterus lining. Endometritis and PID are normally caused by sexually transmitted diseases, or STDs such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. Contraceptives such as the IUD may also contribute to the disease. Women who douche may increase their risk of endometritis, which changes the balance of good and harmful bacteria in the vaginal tract.

Risks

• Certain factors increase your risk of endometritis and include not using condoms, being a woman under 25 who is sexually active, having multiple sex partners, douching regularly, having recently inserted an IUD and a history of endometritis.

Effects

• Side effects of endometritis include abnormal vaginal bleeding, stomach distention, pain in the pelvic area, fever, low back pain and pain during bowel movements. Pain may also be felt during intercourse and exercise. You may have trouble urinating and experience irregular menstrual bleeding.

Warnings

• Left untreated endometritis can cause infertility because of damage to the uterus and other female reproductive organs. Ectopic or tubal pregnancy may occur when fallopian tubes are damaged and cannot allow access to the uterus.

Treatment

• Antibiotic treatment is given to fight infectious bacteria. Hospitalization may be necessary if you are experiencing considerable pain, are HIV-positive or pregnant. Intravenous antibiotics will be administered along with oral antibiotic treatment. Over the counter pain relievers such as Motrin or Aleve may be recommended for pelvic pain. Drink plenty of fluids to flush out the infection.
  Surgery is rare, but if an abscess has grown and ruptured inside the uterus lining, surgery may be necessary to stop the bleeding.

Prevention/Solution

• Decrease your risk of endometritis by limiting sexual partners and practicing safe sex by using latex condoms. Avoid douching as this upsets the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina. Get tested for a STD if you believe you have been put at risk. Early treatment of STDs will lessen your risk of complications.