Endomyometritis
?Understanding Endomyometritis
Endomyometritis is an inflammation of the lining of the uterus caused by a wide range of bacteria, fungi, or parasites. It is a common type of gynecological infection which is estimated to affect up to 10% of women in the United States. Endomyometritis can be acute or chronic, and is most often treated with antibiotics. It can cause significant pain, and can result in fertility issues if not treated.
Signs & Symptoms of Endomyometritis
The most common symptom of endomyometritis is pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic area. Other common symptoms may include fever, chills, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, or a feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen. In some cases, people with endomyometritis may experience nausea, vomiting, or pass clots during menstruation.
Causes of Endomyometritis
Endomyometritis is most often caused by a bacterial infection. Common bacteria such as Staphylococci, Streptococci, and E. coli have all been linked to endomyometritis. Endomyometritis may also be caused by fungi or parasites - in many cases, these are spread to the uterine lining via sexual contact. In some cases, endomyometritis may be caused by an injury or trauma to the uterus.
Prevention & Treatment of Endomyometritis
The best way to prevent endomyometritis is to practice safe sex and get tested regularly, especially if you have more than one sexual partner. It's also important to keep up with regular pap smears, HPV testing, and pelvic exams to ensure that any potential signs of endomyometritis are identified and treated early.
If you are diagnosed with endomyometritis, you may need antibiotics to treat the infection. Depending on the type and severity of the infection, oral or topical antibiotics might be used. In some cases, remaining sexually active can make endomyometritis worse because of the risk of reinfection. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
Complications of Endomyometritis
If left untreated, endomyometritis can lead to a wide range of complications. These include pain, infertility, uterine scarring which can affect fertility, and tubal or ovarian abscesses. Endomyometritis can also spread to other organs, leading to septicemia or other more serious conditions.
Managing Endomyometritis
If you are diagnosed with endomyometritis, it is important to keep up with regular follow-up visits to ensure that the infection is completely cleared. It is also important to practice safe sex, take medications as prescribed, and keep up with regular checkups and screenings. If you experience any signs of endomyometritis, contact your healthcare provider right away.
- Practice safe sex
- Get tested regularly
- Keep up with regular pap smears, HPV testing, and pelvic exams
- Take medications as prescribed
- Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any signs of endomyometritis