Endometritis
After having a baby, most of the attention naturally goes toward the newborn and not the birthing parent. Between feeding, diaper changes, sleepless nights, and adjusting to a new routine, it can be easy for a new mom to forget that her own body is also going through a major recovery and is now at risk of different illnesses and conditions.
One condition new moms should be aware of is endometritis. Endometritis is inflammation of the lining of the uterus caused by a bacterial infection. It can happen after childbirth, especially following a c-section birth, but it can also occur after a miscarriage, or certain procedures involving the uterus. The good news is that endometritis is usually treatable with antibiotics. The key is recognizing the symptoms and getting medical attention when needed.
Because the names are similar, it is common for people to confuse endometriosis and endometritis. It is important to know the difference. Endometritis is an infection and inflammation of the lining of the uterus, often occurring after childbirth, miscarriage, or a medical procedure, while endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, often causing painful periods, pelvic pain, and sometimes fertility problems.
What Causes Endometritis?
Endometritis happens when bacteria enter the uterus and cause an infection. After giving birth, the uterus is healing, which can make it easier for bacteria to enter and cause an infection. Some things that can increase the risk during or after childbirth include:
- Having a c-section, especially an unplanned C-section after labor has started.
- A long or difficult labor.
- Your water being broken for a long time before delivery.
- Having an infection during labor.
- Multiple cervical examinations during labor.
- Placental tissue remaining in the uterus after delivery.
- Certain procedures during labor or delivery.
Having one of these risk factors doesn't mean you will develop endometritis. It just means there may be a higher risk of infection.
Common Symptoms
Some discomfort, cramping, bleeding, and tiredness are normal after giving birth, so a lot of postpartum moms might wonder how do you know when something may be more serious? Common symptoms of endometritis include:
- Fever ( a temperature of 100.4°F or higher) or chills.
- Pain or tenderness in the lower abdomen or pelvis.
- Feeling unusually weak, tired, or sick.
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
- Heavy or unusual vaginal bleeding.
- A tender uterus.
- Headache or loss of appetite.
- Symptoms that are getting worse instead of better.
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, especially a fever along with increasing abdominal or pelvic pain, it's important to contact your healthcare provider. If you have severe pain, trouble breathing, chest pain, or feel like you're experiencing a medical emergency, seek emergency medical care immediately.
How Is Endometritis Treated?
Because endometritis is an infection, it is typically treated with antibiotics. Depending on how serious the infection is, antibiotics may be given through an IV, usually when endometritis occurs after childbirth. Getting treatment is important because an untreated infection can become more serious. In some cases, the infection can spread to other parts of the body or cause complications such as an abscess or a bloodstream infection like sepsis.
Don't Forget About Yourself
Being a new parent can make it easy to put your own health on the back burner. You're focused on making sure your baby is fed, clean, comfortable, and safe. But taking care of yourself is also part of taking care of your baby.
Don't be afraid to ask questions or tell your healthcare provider when something doesn't feel right. You don't need to diagnose yourself or decide whether your symptoms are "bad enough" to call. For new moms, the most important thing is to pay attention to your body. Fever, chills, worsening abdominal pain, uterine tenderness, foul-smelling discharge, or unusual bleeding are symptoms worth bringing up to your healthcare provider. While endometritis can be a serious condition if left untreated, it is generally treatable with antibiotics when caught early.
