Inflammation of the uterus

Introduction

An inflammation of the uterus can be very unpleasant for the woman affected. A distinction is made between inflammation of the cervix (cervicitis), inflammation of the lining of the uterus (endometritis) and inflammation of the uterine muscles (myometritis). Overall, the inflammation of the uterus is often caused by an ascending vaginal inflammation (colitis) and is usually of bacterial origin.

With an adequate and timely therapy it usually heals without complications. The uterus lies in the middle of the lower abdomen. One fallopian tube opens into the body of the uterus at each side.

The uterus is closed at the bottom by the inner cervix in the direction of the cervix. The cervix is again separated from the vagina by the outer cervix. The outer cervix is particularly important because it keeps pathogenic germs out of the uterus.

Causes

The most common cause of uterine inflammation is untreated vaginal inflammation, which spreads towards the uterus and eventually reaches the uterus through the cervix. This is usually a bacterial inflammation. Possible pathogens are gonococci, streptococci, staphylococci, chlamydia, mycoplasma or escherichia coli.

Usually such an ascending infection is favored by other factors. For example, pathogens can more easily reach the uterus if the natural protective mechanisms of the vagina are disturbed. This is usually an acidic environment, which makes it difficult for harmful microorganisms to multiply there.

A vaginal environment that is too dry and alkaline can promote the colonization and reproduction of harmful bacteria and fungi. The risk of germs entering the uterus is also increased during menstruation. The same applies to vaginal operations, for example gynaecological operations such as the insertion of a coil.

During this procedure, germs can be carried into the uterus, where they multiply and can lead to an inflammatory reaction. Other factors that can promote the development of uterine inflammation are changes in the area of the cervix that make it more permeable. These include growths of the mucous membrane, for example polyps and myomas.

After a vaginal birth or miscarriage, the cervix can also become more permeable, allowing germs to spread into the uterus. Sometimes, after a pregnancy, remains of the placenta remain in the uterus, which can then cause an inflammation. Infection with human papilloma viruses (HPV) can also make the mucous membrane at the cervix less resistant to ascending germs.

Last but not least, an inflammation of the uterus can also develop in old age due to a uterine prolapse or a change in the hormonal balance. With age, the level of female sex hormones decreases. As a result, the lining of the uterus becomes thinner, drier and thus more susceptible to infection. An inflammation of the uterus due to this hormonal change after the menopause is also called endometritis senilis.