Antibiotics for endometritis

Because infection of the uterine lining may involve more than one type of bacterium, treatment may combine medicines. Someone who is unwell, has recently given birth, or cannot keep tablets down may need antibiotics through a vein and observation in hospital. Milder cases may sometimes be managed with oral medicine under close clinical guidance.

Endometritis is inflammation of the inner lining of the uterus caused by infection. It can develop after childbirth, miscarriage, a procedure involving the uterus, or as part of an infection ascending from the lower genital tract. Common presentations include pelvic or lower abdominal pain, fever, uterine tenderness and vaginal discharge that is unusual or unpleasant-smelling.

A clinician may use an examination, pregnancy testing, blood or urine tests, swabs, or imaging to assess the cause and look for retained pregnancy tissue, an abscess or another source of symptoms.

Start prescribed antibiotics promptly and follow the dosing instructions. Complete the course unless your treating clinician changes it. Mention allergies, pregnancy or breastfeeding, kidney or liver problems, and all other medicines so the regimen can be selected safely.

Rest, drink enough fluid to avoid dehydration and monitor whether pain, fever and general wellbeing improve. If a test identifies a sexually transmitted infection, your clinician can explain partner treatment and when to resume sexual contact to reduce reinfection.

Seek urgent medical assessment for severe or increasing pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, fainting, confusion, difficulty breathing, repeated vomiting, or rapidly worsening illness. Fever with abdominal pain or offensive discharge after giving birth, miscarriage or a uterine procedure also needs prompt evaluation.

Return for review if symptoms worsen after antibiotics begin or are not improving in the timeframe your clinician gave you. A persistent infection may require a different medicine, hospital treatment, imaging or management of an underlying source.

Ask whether you need hospital treatment, what improvement should feel like, and which side effects require a call. Clarify whether samples have been taken, whether imaging is needed, and whether a partner needs testing or treatment.