What is the Difference Between Endometritis and Endometriosis?

Endometritis and endometriosis are two distinct conditions that affect the uterus, but they have different causes and manifestations. Here are the main differences between the two:

1. Cause: Endometritis is caused by a bacterial infection within the uterus, leading to inflammation of the uterine lining (endometrium). In contrast, endometriosis is caused by the growth and spread of tissue similar to the endometrium, or uterine lining, outside of the uterine cavity. Endometriosis is not caused by an infection.
2. Location: Endometritis affects the inner lining of the uterus, causing inflammation or irritation. Endometriosis, on the other hand, occurs when tissue resembling endometrial cells grows outside of the uterus, often affecting the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and sometimes the bladder and bowel.
3. Symptoms: Symptoms of endometritis include pelvic or abdominal pain and swelling, fever, vaginal discharge or bleeding, and inflammation of the endometrium. Endometriosis symptoms can include painful periods, pain during intercourse, and infertility.
4. Types: There are two types of endometritis: acute and chronic. Acute endometritis typically stems from infection, which may be due to complications from childbirth, miscarriage, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), or certain medical procedures like dilation and curettage (D&C). Chronic endometritis is continuous, mild, and harder to diagnose, and is most commonly caused by chronic bacterial infection. Endometriosis does not have different types.
5. Treatment: Endometritis can be treated with antibiotics, as it is caused by a bacterial infection. Endometriosis treatment, on the other hand, often involves hormonal therapies, pain management, and in some cases, surgery to remove the affected tissue.

Comparative Table: Endometritis vs Endometriosis

Here is a table comparing endometritis and endometriosis:

Both endometritis and endometriosis affect the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium). Endometritis is an inflammation of the uterine lining caused by bacterial infections, while endometriosis is the growth of ectopic endometrial tissue outside the uterus. The causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of these two conditions differ, as outlined in the table above.