Endometritis is an inflammation or irritation of the lining of the uterus (endometrium).

See also: Pelvic inflammatory disease

The usual cause of endometritis is infection, such as

• Chlamydia
• Gonococcal endometritis
• Salpingitis  
• Tuberculous endometritis
• Purulent endometritis

Endometritis may also occur from:

• Childbirth
• Abortion (therapeutic, elective, or spontaneous)
• Intrauterine device (IUD) insertion
• Surgery or other gynecological procedures that require insertion of medical instruments

Other risk factors may include a history of acute salpingitis, acute cervicitis, and other pelvic infections, including many sexually transmitted diseases.

• General discomfort, uneasiness, or ill feeling (malaise)
• Fever (ranging from 100 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit)
• Lower abdominal or pelvic pain (uterine pain)
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Abnormal vaginal discharge
  • Increased amount
  • Unusual color, consistency, or odor
• Discomfort with bowel movement (constipation may occur)
• Abdominal distention

The health care provider will perform a physical exam. Exam of the lower abdomen may show abdominal tenderness. Bowel sounds may be decreased. A pelvic exam may reveal a tender uterus and cervix. There may be cervical discharge.

The following tests may be performed:

• WBC (white blood count)
• ESR (sed rate)
• Endocervical cultures for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and other organisms
• Endometrial biopsy
• Laparoscopy