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Endometritis

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

Treatment:

Complicated cases (those occurring after childbirth, or those involving severe infection) may require the patient to be admitted to a hospital. The patient may receive  intravenous antibiotics, followed by antibiotics taken by mouth.

Rest and hydration are important. Treatment for sexual partner(s), when appropriate, and the use of condoms throughout the course of treatment, are essential.

Expectations (prognosis):

Most cases of endometritis go away with antibiotics. Untreated endometritis can lead to more serious infection and complications with pelvic organs, reproduction, and general health.

Complications:

• Pelvic peritonitis (generalized pelvic infection)
• Pelvic or uterine abscess formation
• Septicemia
• Septic shock
• Infertility

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms of endometritis occur (particularly if within several days after childbirth, abortion, or IUD insertion).

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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