A uterine infection usually begins in the cervix before spreading to other parts of the uterus. It may cause lower abdominal pain, vaginal discharge, vaginal bleeding, and, in some cases, fever.
Most uterine infections are caused by sexually transmitted bacteria. They are more common in younger people who have multiple sexual partners or have sex without using condoms.
Anyone with symptoms of a uterine infection should see a gynecologist. Treatment usually involves antibiotics or antifungal medication, although severe infections may require hospitalization.
Main symptoms
The main symptoms of a uterine infection include:
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Lower abdominal pain that gets worse when the area is pressed
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Vaginal discharge that may have an unpleasant odor and appear white, yellow, or gray
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Vaginal bleeding between periods or after sex
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Pain during or shortly after sex (dyspareunia)
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Fever, in some cases
A uterine infection usually begins with inflammation of the cervix, known as cervicitis. Without appropriate treatment, the infection can worsen and spread to other parts of the uterus.
According to the CDC, some cervical and upper genital tract infections can cause few or no symptoms and may lead to complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, or chronic pelvic pain.
Confirming a diagnosis
A gynecologist can diagnose a uterine infection based on the symptoms and findings from a pelvic exam, such as pus-like discharge or bleeding from the cervix.
The doctor may also test a sample of cervical secretions to identify the microorganism causing the infection and determine the most appropriate treatment.
Possible causes
In most cases, a uterine infection is caused by sexually transmitted bacteria, such as Neisseria gonorrhoeae or Chlamydia trachomatis. These bacteria usually infect the cervix first and may then spread to other parts of the uterus.
Uterine infections are more common in people under 25 who have multiple sexual partners, have sex without using condoms, and/or have a history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Pain may be one of the first signs of this infection. However, uterine pain can also be caused by conditions such as endometriosis or adenomyosis, so it is important to identify the underlying cause correctly.
Treatment options
In most cases, treatment for a uterine infection involves oral medications, such as antibiotics or antifungals. More severe infections may require hospitalization and medication given intravenously (through an IV).
According to the CDC, when the infection is associated with cervicitis or another STI, sexual partners should be evaluated and treated to reduce the risk of transmission and reinfection.