What is Endometritis and Its Impact on Women’s Health?

Endometritis is a condition that impacts the inner lining of the uterus.

It is a serious condition that must be diagnosed and treated as early as possible to avoid any long-term complications.

This article focuses on providing you with the most accurate information on endometritis, its type, its impact on women’s health, and much more.

A] What is Endometritis? 

Endometritis is an inflammation of the inner lining of the uterus. It can be caused due to an infection, especially after childbirth, miscarriage, or gynaecological procedures. The symptoms could be pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal bleeding, and fever. It can be treated with medicine but if left untreated, it might become severe, requiring surgery. Hence, timely medical attention is crucial for managing this condition effectively.

B] Types of Endometritis 

Endometritis comes in two distinct forms: 

1. Acute endometritis 

This is a sudden and short-term form of the condition. It could last for days or weeks, it occurs because of bacterial infection, most commonly after miscarriage, gynaecological surgery and often following childbirth with symptoms like fever, pelvic pain, and unusual vaginal discharge. 

2. Chronic Endometritis 

This form is a more persistent version of this condition. It could last for a month or even years. Symptoms for this could be easy-going like mild pelvic pain and irregular menstrual bleeding. Chronic endometritis can lead to poor reproductive outcomes such as miscarriage, and implantation failures. 

This required examination of histopathological and prolonger treatment with antibiotic therapy or a gynaecology appointment for a personalised consultation. 

C] How is Endometritis related to Infertility? 

1. Unwelcoming Environment:

A healthy endometrium supports the implantation of a fertilised egg by keeping a nurturing environment. However, endometritis inflammation can disrupt this balance. During endometritis, inflammatory cells, and released chemicals can damage the embryo’s ability which can lead to unsuccessful implantation and damage. This interference can affect successful pregnancy.

2. Hormonal Imbalance

Endometritis can disrupt the hormonal balance that is needed for successful pregnancy. The inflammation can affect the productivity of hormones, which are necessary for the growth of the endometrial. It creates difficulties for an embryo to establish a healthy connection with the uterine lining. This disruption makes it challenging for a successful pregnancy. 

D] What Are The Signs Of Endometritis? 

Endometritis can cause various symptoms that can be uncomfortable. It’s important to be aware of the symptoms for timely treatment. Here are some key symptoms to look out for:

1. Pelvic Pain 

It is typically the most noticeable symptom of endometritis. It can range from a low ache to high, cramping sensations in your lower abdomen or pelvic area. This pain could be constant or keep coming and going. It could get worse during movement or sexual intercourse.

2. Vaginal Bleeding 

Endometritis can affect your usual vaginal discharge. You might notice an increased amount of discharge, a change in colour (often becoming cloudy or yellowish), or a different odour than your usual menstrual cycle.

3. Fever

Acute endometritis can cause fever and may require quick medical attention.

4. Fatigue 

Fatigue is a common symptom of endometritis. It can leave you feeling exhausted and low on energy.

5. Constipation 

It is not so common but could occur in some women.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is crucial to contact your gynecologist as these are the major risk factors for endometritis.

E] Causes of Endometritis 

Endometritis can be triggered due to various factors and disrupt the natural balance within the uterus. It is essential to understand the causes for timely treatment. Here’s a closer look at the common causes of endometritis:

1. Childbirth Or Pregnancy Loss 

A woman can contract endometritis during childbirth, especially in cesarean delivery than in normal delivery. Bacteria can spread into the uterus during the procedure, which leads to infection. Similarly, pregnancy loss, and miscarriage, can also increase the chances of endometritis development.

2. Sexually Transmitted Infections 

Chlamydia and gonorrhea are two notable causes of endometritis. This infection can go up from the lower reproductive tract into the uterus, causing inflammation and infection. Practicing safe sex and getting tested and treated for STIs can reduce this risk.

3. Bacteria In Uterus 

Various bacteria, including those which are present in the vagina, can cause endometritis if they enter the uterus.

4. Pelvic Procedures 

The process of some gynaecologists can introduce bacteria while accessing the uterine cavity and increase the risk of endometritis. These procedures include:

• Dilation And Curettage 

It is a surgical procedure to remove tissues from the uterus, often performed after a miscarriage or for diagnostic purposes. 

• Endometrial Biopsy 

A procedure where a small tissue sample is taken from the endometrium to diagnose the conditions.

• Hysteroscopy 

In this procedure, a thin scope is inserted inside the uterus to examine the lining.

• Intrauterine Device Insertion 

During this process, IUD insertion can disrupt the natural balance of the uterus and create bacteria in the uterus.

5. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

It is an infection of the reproductive organs that can spread the cervix to the uterus, leading to endometritis. 

F] Treatment for Endometriosis

Endometritis requires an effective treatment to prevent complications. Here are some treatment approaches depending on the severity of the condition:

1. Antibiotics 

This is the first way of endometritis treatment, which aims to eliminate the bacterial infection that causes inflammation. The treatment duration is usually 10-14 days. Early diagnosis and following the complete antibiotic course are necessary for a full recovery.

2. Treating Sexual Partners 

If endometritis is caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs), It’s recommended to get your sexual partner diagnosed and treated for the STI. This will minimise the risk of re-infection in the future.

3. Further Tests

In some cases, further tests are necessary to understand the exact cause of treatment. These tests could include testing the bacterial culture of the cervical and vaginal discharge, blood tests, imaging studies, and ultrasound and endometrial biopsy.

4. Surgery

If the infection becomes severe, It might require surgery. This process involves removing the infected tissue using surgery. It is to be noted that this is not the first option to go for. Doctors only suggest it when other antibiotic treatments are ineffective.

5. Treating any abscesses

Abscesses are a collection of pus that can form a severe infection. The treatment can be done through needle aspiration or a surgical procedure. It is important to drain abscesses to stop the spread of infection and allow healing.

Conclusion 

Endometritis is a serious condition affecting the uterus lining. It required quick attention for timely treatment. Recognising symptoms and undergoing timely treatment is crucial. There are several treatment options for this condition. Consult a reputed gynaecologist to learn which suits you the best.

Womens Healthcare is a well-known private gynaecologist in London helping women diagnose and treat such problems with ease. Our priority is to promote women’s overall well-being through our expert guidance.