How to detect endometritis

Endometritis can be diagnosed through gynecological examination, laboratory examination, imaging examination, pathological examination, hysteroscopy, etc. Endometritis may be related to bacterial infection, uterine manipulation, poor hygiene habits and other factors. It usually presents with symptoms such as lower abdominal pain, abnormal vaginal discharge, fever and other symptoms.

1. Gynecological examination

Gynecological examination is the basic method for diagnosing endometritis. The doctor checks the position, size, texture and tenderness of the uterus through bimanual or trimanual examination. Patients with acute endometritis often have uterine tenderness, while chronic patients may have an enlarged or hardened uterus. The characteristics of vaginal secretions need to be observed during the examination. Purulent secretions may indicate the possibility of infection. Gynecological examination can also rule out other pelvic diseases such as pelvic inflammatory disease, adnexitis, etc.

2. Laboratory examination

Laboratory tests include blood routine, C-reactive protein, vaginal secretion tests, etc. Routine blood tests showed an increase in white blood cell count and an increase in the proportion of neutrophils. C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate may be increased. Smear examination of vaginal secretions can reveal a large number of white blood cells, and bacterial culture can identify the types of pathogenic bacteria. Special pathogens such as Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia require PCR testing. Laboratory tests can help determine the extent of infection and the type of pathogen.

3. Imaging examination

Ultrasound examination is a commonly used imaging method. Transvaginal ultrasound can clearly display the endometrial thickness, echo and uterine cavity conditions. Acute endometritis can show thickening of the endometrium, uneven echo, and uterine fluid accumulation. Chronic patients may experience intrauterine adhesions and endometrial line disruption. Ultrasound can be used to evaluate complications such as pelvic abscess in severe infections. MRI examination has higher resolution for complex cases and can clearly show the scope of inflammation and tissue levels.

4. Pathological examination

Diagnostic dilation and curettage to obtain endometrial tissue for pathological examination is the basis for diagnosis. Under the microscope, endometrial interstitial congestion and edema, large amounts of neutrophil infiltration, and micro-abscess formation may be seen in severe cases. Plasma cell infiltration and fibrosis may be seen in chronic endometritis. Pathological examination can identify endometrial polyps, endometrial tuberculosis and other diseases. Pathological examination is particularly important for patients who are refractory to antibiotic treatment or have recurrent relapses.

5. Hysteroscopy

Hysteroscopy can directly observe the uterine cavity morphology and endometrial lesions. Intimal congestion and edema, bleeding spots or purulent secretions may be seen in the acute phase. Uterine adhesions, endometrial polyps, etc. may be found in the chronic phase. Hysteroscopy can take biopsies under direct vision to improve diagnostic accuracy. For complex cases or patients with infertility, hysteroscopy can assess the uterine cavity environment and guide subsequent treatment.

If endometritis is suspected, seek medical advice as soon as possible and avoid strenuous exercise and sexual intercourse. Keep your vulva clean and dry, choose cotton underwear and change it daily. The diet should be light and consume more high-quality protein and vitamin-rich foods such as fish, broccoli, etc. Avoid spicy foods and alcohol. Use antibiotics as directed by your doctor and do not stop taking them on your own. After treatment, a review is required to confirm that the inflammation has subsided. Chronic patients may need traditional Chinese medicine conditioning or physical therapy to assist recovery.