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Chronic Endometritis Symptoms

Endometritis is inflammation of the lining of the uterus and when not related to pregnancy is also known as pelvic inflammatory disease. The disorder can also be associated with inflammation of the fallopian tubes and ovaries. Sexually transmitted diseases or STDs are the main cause of endometritis.

  1. Causes

    • Endometritis is caused by STDs such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. Bacteria can also enter your reproductive tract through IUD insertion, miscarriage, abortion and childbirth. An endometrial biopsy, which removes tissue from the uterine lining, may also cause risk of endometritis.

    Symptoms

    • Symptoms of endometritis include low back pain, painful intercourse, vaginal discharge with odor, pain in lower stomach and pelvic region and irregular menstrual bleeding. Other symptoms may include diarrhea, vomiting, fatigue, painful urination and fever. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of severe vomiting, intense pain in your lower abdomen, fainting and a fever of 101 degrees or higher.

      Symptoms of genital sores or rash may indicate an STD so avoid sex until you are seen by a doctor.

    Risks

    • Your risk of developing endometritis is increased by having sex with multiple partners, being sexually active under the age of 25 and using non-barrier contraceptives. Other risks include douching, which upsets the balance of good and bad bacteria in the vagina, and having a history of endometritis or STDs.

    Diagnosis

    • Urine and vaginal samples will be taken to test for STDs. A pelvic ultrasound will confirm diagnosis of endrometritis and show how widespread the infection may be. An endometrial biopsy involves your doctor removing and testing a tissue sample from your uterus.

    Treatment

    • Antibiotic treatment will be prescribed to treat endometritis. Hospitalization with intravenous antibiotic treatment may be required for severe cases with oral antibiotic treatment following your hospital stay. Rest and drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Alert sexual partners if you have a confirmed diagnosis of an STD.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Use condoms to prevent STDs when having sex with multiple partners. Practice healthy hygiene habits by wiping front to back to avoid bacteria entering your vagina. Refrain from douching as it upsets the natural balance of bacteria in your vagina. When an STD is suspected, get tested right away.

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