Inflammation of the uterus is a health problem that is usually caused by some changes in the vaginal mucosa, which favors the entry of some microorganisms such as bacteria that finally reach this organ causing irritation in its tissues. Depending on the area of the uterus that affects, this condition can be classified into three types: cervicitis in the case that it occurs in the cervix; endometritis when inflammation is localized in the lining of the uterus (endometrium); and myometritis if the condition is centered in the middle layer of the myometer (the wall of the uterus).
Whatever the type of irritation, if you wonder how to know if I have an inflamed uterus, the most advisable thing to detect this disease would be to go to the doctor to make a more accurate diagnosis. Even so, in the following article we will explain some of the symptoms that could be warning you of this health problem. Read!
Types of inflammation of the uterus according to its location
As we have indicated, inflammation of the uterus is a condition that is characterized by causing irritation in the tissues of that organ. Depending on its location, uterine inflammation can be classified into several types. Specifically, these are the 3 main types of inflammation of the uterus:
- Cervicitis: According to the MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, it is defined as swelling of the tissues found in the cervix (or the end of the uterus). Cervicitis is usually caused by a sexually transmitted infection such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, or genital herpes.
- Endometritis: In this case, inflammation occurs in the lining of the inner mucosa of the uterus. Some factors that predispose to endometriosis, especially procedures in the pelvic area, are cesarean delivery, iuD placement or hysteroscopy, among others.
- Myometritis: it is an inflammation and infection that occurs when the bacteria that entered through the vagina ascend to affect the middle layer of the walls of the uterus, also known as myometrium or uterine myocyte.
To know what type of inflammation of the uterus you are suffering from, it is recommended that you go to a specialist to perform an examination known as colposcopy. In this analysis, the doctor can make his diagnosis by looking at where exactly the inflammation of these tissues is located.
Main causes of inflammation of the uterus
In addition to knowing the different types of this condition according to its location, it is also important to know what causes it so that the doctor assigns the most appropriate treatment. Among the most common causes that cause inflammation of the uterus we find:
- Vaginitis: it is an infection caused by the entry of various bacteria through the vagina and that damage the defense mechanism of the mucosa of this, producing symptoms such as inflammation, itching and pruritus in the area.
- Allergic reaction to latex: inflammation in this organ can be caused by contact with products of this material such as condoms, spermicides and some diaphragms.
- Sexually transmitted diseases and infections: among them we find that some conditions such as genital herpes, human papillomavirus or chlamydia can cause irritation in the tissues of this area of the body.
- Bacterial infection: it is very common for inflammation of the uterus to occur due to the entry through the vagina of well-known bacteria such as Candida albicans, Garfnerella vaginali S. or Rhamnosys lactobacillus.
- Medical procedures: in some treatments or procedures, lesions can occur in this area such as douching, which in addition to damaging the area, can also cause some change in the pH of the vagina, which favors the entry of bacteria.
How to tell if I have an inflamed uterus – main symptoms
Now that you know the different causes that can lead to this irritation in the uterine area, it is normal for you to have doubts and ask yourself “How do I know if I have an inflamed uterus?”. Next, in the following lines we will list the main symptoms of the different types of inflammation of the uterus:
Main symptoms of cervicitis
Generally, cervicitis is a condition that is diagnosed through a medical examination since many times the symptoms can take time to appear or directly not cause any sign that you are suffering from it. However, in other cases, any of the following symptoms may occur:
- Very abundant vaginal discharge in addition to being yellowish in tone and presenting an unpleasant smell.
- Pain throughout the vagina and uterus area.
- Stinging and appearance of pruritus in the vagina.
- Pain during sexual intercourse.
- Feeling of heaviness in the lower belly.
- Vaginal bleeding between menstrual periods.
- Bleeding after intercourse (without menstruation).
Main symptoms of endometritis and myometritis
Both endometritis and myometritis usually show the same signs of inflammation. Among its general symptoms we find:
- Pain in the lower belly.
- Feeling of having the uterus pressed.
- Much heavier and/or prolonged bleeding during menstruation.
- Bleeding between two menstrual periods (metrorrhagia).
- Inflammation in the ovaries.
- Fever.
- Malaise.
- Discomfort when defecating and / or constipation.
