When is endometritis most commonly observed?

Endometritis is an infection of the endometrium, the inner lining of the uterus, often resulting from retained placental tissue or bacteria entering the uterus during or after delivery. It is most commonly associated with cesarean sections (C-sections) because the surgical procedure increases the risk of bacterial introduction into the uterine cavity. Additionally, prolonged rupture of membranes (PROM)— longer than 24 hours—can create a pathway for bacteria to ascend from the vagina into the uterus, particularly if labor does not progress, further increasing the risk of endometritis.

The heightened risk in these scenarios is due to factors such as surgical trauma, manipulation of the uterus, and the presence of foreign materials or retained products, all of which provide opportunities for infection to develop. Understanding this context is crucial for anticipating and managing potential complications following delivery.

In contrast, while endometritis can occur after natural delivery, it is less common than in the scenarios described above. Early pregnancy is not typically associated with endometritis as the endometrium is less traumatized, and vacuum-assisted deliveries do not inherently lead to a significant increase in endometrial infection compared to the risks posed by surgical interventions or extended PROM. Thus, the key situation leading to a