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Endometritis

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Definition:

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

See also: Pelvic inflammatory disease

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

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.

References:

Faro S. Postpartum endometritis. Clin Perinatol .  2005; 32(3): 803-14. 

Stenchever A. Comprehensive Gynecology . 4th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2001:708.

• Review Date: 5/10/2006
• Reviewed By: Melanie N. Smith, M.D., Ph.D., Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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