What Causes Endometrium Swelling?

The rupture of membranes during childbirth is one of the most common causes of endometrium swelling (endometritis), which is the inflammation of any of the layers of the uterus.

Endometrium swelling (endometritis) is inflammation of any of the layers of the uterus. 

Normal bacteria from the cervix and vagina may enter the uterus, which can lead to inflammation and infection. The most common cause of endometrium swelling is the rupture of membranes during childbirth.

The uterus is a sterile environment until the amniotic sac ruptures during childbirth, when bacteria is more likely to enter damaged or bleeding uterine tissue where it can multiply. It is more common in patients who undergo Cesarean sections (C-sections). 

Risk Factors

In addition to a Caesarean delivery, risk factors for developing endometritis include: 

• Inflammation of amniotic fluid and tissue (chorioamnionitis)
• Prolonged labor
• Membrane rupture
• Multiple cervical examinations
• Internal fetal monitoring
• Young maternal age
• Never giving birth before
• Low socioeconomic status
• Obesity
• Meconium-stained amniotic fluid
• Bacterial colonization of the lower genital tract with bacteria such as Group B streptococcus (GBS), Chlamydia trachomatis, Mycoplasma hominis, Ureaplasma urealyticum, or Gardnerella vaginalis 

Endometritis is not the same condition as endometriosis, which is a common condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the womb, causing pelvic pain and fertility problems.