What are the Symptoms of Endometritis?

What are the Symptoms of Endometritis?

Endometritis may not be life-threatening but it should be treated as soon as possible. This is because, septicemia, one of the possible complications that may arise from endometritis can be fatal if left unattended.

When it comes to the treatment of this condition, the earlier it is diagnosed, the better. Endometritis is common amongst women who have recently given birth or had a miscarriage. However, in some cases, it may even affect women who are not pregnant. Hence, you must be aware of the symptoms associated with it even if you are not pregnant.

Endometritis Symptoms

Some of the common symptoms associated with endometritis are:

  • Swelling of the abdomen
  • Abnormal discharge or bleeding from the vagina
  • Constipation of uncomfortable bowel movements
  • Fever
  • Pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis
  • Pain in the rectal area
  • The general feeling of being unwell

Diagnosis of Endometritis

If the doctor suspects endometritis on the basis of the above symptoms, she will conduct a thorough physical exam of the pelvic area. This will include looking at the uterus and cervix for signs of discharge and tenderness. A few additional tests may also be required such as:

  • Testing samples of the endometrial tissue inside the uterus for the presence of bacteria associated with STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhoea
  • An endometrial biopsy- this involves removing a small part of the endometrial tissue for testing
  • Collecting a sample of the vaginal discharge and examining it under a microscope
  • A laparoscopic procedure that allows the doctor to examine the inside of the abdomen or pelvis more clearly.
  • Blood tests to check the levels of white blood cells and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate. In the case of endometritis, both these levels are usually higher than normal.

If endometritis is diagnosed in time and treatment is given, the condition can be easily cured without any permanent damage.