An Abuja based Gynaecologist, Dr. Adaora Ukoh, on Monday said untreated sexually transmitted infection could result in endometritis, a major cause of infertility.

Ukoh said this during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.

She described endometritis as an inflammation of the inner lining of the uterus that is usually caused by infection.

According to her, endometritis is often associated with inflammation of the fallopian tubes, ovaries, as well as the pelvic which commonly occurred after childbirth.

She further said that endometritis could be divided into two categories.

She gave the two groups as pregnancy-related and unrelated endometritis.

Ukoh, however, identified pelvic inflammatory diseases that were sexually transmitted such as Chlamydia and gonorrhea as factors that contribute to the development of endometritis.

The consultant added that womb infection in early pregnancy; prolonged labour and placement of intrauterine device as causative factors of the condition.

She also stated that some certain types of medication such as steroid and some procedures to check the uterus could also pose the risk to developing endometritis.

She further explained that caesarian section, retained tissue after delivery or miscarriage could predispose women to the condition.

The expert said that amniotic fluid, ovarian abscess, abortion as well as anaemia also cause the condition.

She further stated that tuberculosis and a mix of normal vaginal bacteria also posed a risk to the development of the condition.

Ukoh recommended that treatment of endometritis should start from knowing the exact cause.

The physician mentioned that treating sexually transmitted infections early was important in preventing endometritis.

She suggested the use of prescribed antibiotics for the treatment and prevention of the condition.

The physician also recommended evacuation in order to remove tissues left in the womb as a measure of treatment.

She said needle aspiration and surgery could also be sought in treating endometritis.

Ukoh advised partners of women that had been treated for endometritis caused by sexually transmitted diseases to get treatment to avoid reoccurrence.

She admonished women to have safer sex such as the use of condom, stressing that it is key to healthy life. (NAN)

•Photo shows Pregnant Woman