Nonobstetric Endometritis

You have endometritis. This is an infection of the inside lining of the uterus. There are many possible causes. It may occur after a procedure on your uterus, such as a biopsy or placement of an IUD. It may be caused by a vaginal infection that spread. It may also be caused by a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Testing will be done to look for the cause of the infection so the best treatment can be done. It's not always possible to find the exact cause.

Symptoms of endometritis include:

• Fever

• Feeling ill

• Pain in the lower belly

• Swelling of the belly

• Bleeding from the vagina that’s not during your normal period

• Bad-smelling fluid from the vagina

• Pain when urinating

• Pain during sex

In some cases, an infection called pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) also forms. This involves the ovaries and fallopian tubes. If not treated, PID may lead to infertility. This means you may not be able to get pregnant. It can also lead to full-body infection (sepsis). If you have endometritis, you may need further testing to rule out PID.

How to say it

en-doh-muh-TRY-tuhs

Home care

You will be prescribed antibiotics to take for the infection. Take these as directed by your healthcare provider. Don’t stop taking the medicine, even if you feel better. Take all of the medicine until it's gone. In general, your symptoms should get better within 2 to 3 days of starting the antibiotic. If you don’t get better within 3 days of starting this treatment, call your healthcare provider.

General care

Plan to rest at home for the rest of the day.

Until you have taken all the medicine and your symptoms are gone:

• Don’t have sex.

• Don’t put anything into your vagina, including tampons.

• Don’t douche. Douching is generally not recommended at any time.

• Don’t take a tub bath, use a hot tub, or swim. Showering is fine.

Follow-up care

Follow up with your healthcare provider, or as advised. If an STI caused the infection, your recent sexual partners must be contacted and treated as well.

Call 911

Call 911 if any of these occur:

• Pain in your chest, arm, or jaw

• Shortness of breath

When to seek medical advice

Call your healthcare provider right away if any of the following occur:

• Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as directed by your healthcare provider

• Symptoms get worse or you have new symptoms

• Nausea or vomiting

• You don’t get better within 3 days of starting treatment