When are the chances of acute endometritis developing in a woman?
A. After menopause
B. After menarche
C. After abortion or childbirth
D. In childhood
Correct Answer: C. After abortion or childbirth
Explanation
Acute endometritis is most likely to develop when bacteria gain access to the uterine cavity, especially in situations where the natural protective barriers are disrupted.
Chances of developing acute endometritis occur commonly:
- After childbirth (postpartum period)
- Especially after prolonged labor
- Following cesarean section (highest risk)
- After abortion (spontaneous or induced)
- More common after unsafe or incomplete abortion
- After uterine instrumentation
- Dilatation and curettage (D&C)
- Endometrial biopsy
- Insertion of intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD)
- During or after menstruation
- Menstrual blood favors bacterial growth and cervical os is slightly open
- With pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Ascending infection from cervix or vagina
In short (exam-oriented answer):
👉 Acute endometritis commonly develops in the puerperium, post-abortion period, or after uterine instrumentation due to ascending infection.
Other Options Details
These options describe when acute endometritis is most likely or unlikely to develop. Explanation of each:
A. After menopause
- Very rare
- After menopause, the endometrium becomes thin and inactive due to low estrogen.
- There is no menstrual bleeding, ovulation, or pregnancy-related trauma.
- Hence, the chance of acute endometritis is minimal.
- If infection occurs, it is usually chronic or associated with malignancy or instrumentation.
B. After menarche
- Uncommon
- Menarche marks the beginning of menstruation.
- The uterus is still developing and infections are not frequent.
- Acute endometritis is not common unless associated with infection or poor hygiene.
C. After abortion or childbirth
- Most common and highest risk
- The uterus is raw, enlarged, and vulnerable.
- Retained products of conception, prolonged labor, repeated vaginal examinations, or unsterile procedures increase infection risk.
- This is the commonest situation for acute endometritis, especially in the puerperium. ✔ Correct answer
D. In childhood
- Very rare
- The endometrium is immature and inactive.
- Infection of the uterus is uncommon in children.
- Genital infections, if present, usually affect the vulva or vagina, not the endometrium.
Summary
- Acute endometritis most commonly develops after abortion or childbirth due to uterine trauma and bacterial contamination.
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Writer: Vandita Singh, Lucknow (GS India Nursing Group