Metritis

OVERVIEW
Bacterial uterine infection that develops in the immediate postpartum period (usually within the first week); occasionally develops after an abortion or non-sterile artificial insemination—rarely after breeding
Bacteria—ascend through the open cervix to the uterus; a large, flaccid, postpartum uterus provides an ideal environment for growth; gram-negative (e.g., Escherichia coli) commonly isolated
Potentially life-threatening infection; may lead to septic shock
Directly affects uterus; systemic involvement as sepsis develops
Can become chronic and lead to infertility