The endometrium is the tissue that lines the inside of the uterus. The endometrium, like any tissue, can become irritated, inflamed or infected. Sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea and chlamydia can cause endometritis. Endometritis is the main type of postpartum infection, occurring in 1 to 3 percent of vaginal deliveries and 5 to 15 percent of cesarean deliveries, the Merck Manual states. Intrauterine device placement and dilatation and curettage are other possible causes of endometritis. Antibiotics are used to treat endometritis.
Systemic Symptoms
Women with endometritis may be extremely tired and lethargic. Fever is common in endometritis and may range from 100 to 104 F, the University of Maryland Medical Center states. Chills, headache and a fast heart rate may accompany fever. Fever most commonly appears in the first 24 to 72 hours after childbirth, if childbirth is the cause of endometritis.
Abdominal Symptoms
Endometritis often develops at the site of placental detachment after childbirth. Because the placenta usually implants near the top, or fundus, of the uterus, the fundus may be especially tender to the touch. Endometritis from other causes also causes uterine tenderness and lower abdominal pain. Abdominal distention and constipation may also occur, along with loss of appetite. Bowel movements may be painful because the intestines touch the outside of the uterus.
Vaginal Symptoms
Endometritis can cause a yellowish discharge that may be foul smelling. If endometritis occurs after childbirth, lochia, the normal discharge that follows delivery, may be very heavy. Vaginal bleeding may occur from endometritis associated with causes other than childbirth. Women who have endometritis associated with pelvic inflammatory disease may also have cervical tenderness and pain after intercourse, the National Network of STD/HIV Prevention Training Centers states.
