Adult

Infections in gynaecology

Warning

Includes:

  • Bartholins abscess
  • Surgical site infection
  • Endometrial infection (after hysteroscopy/ missed miscarriage)
  • PID (see also link to Sexual health)

Mild/ moderate infection and oral switch

Typically 3-5 days treatment

Preferred - Includes penicillin allergy (non-severe)

cefalexin 1g po tds +/- metronidazole 400mg po tds

Alternative - For penicillin allergy (severe) OR MRSA positive patients:

 co-trimoxazole 960mg po bd +/- metronidazole 400mg po tds

 

Severe infection

Review daily for oral switch

Preferred - Includes penicillin allergy (non-severe):

cefazolin 2g iv tds AND metronidazole 400mg po tds (500mg iv tds if oral not possible)

Alternative - For penicillin allergy (severe): 

co-trimoxazole 960mg iv or po bd AND metronidazole 400mg tds po (500mg iv tds if oral not possible)

Editorial Information

Last reviewed: 28 Nov 2025

Next review date: 01 Dec 2028

Author(s): Nicola Jones.

Approved By: ASG/ MMTC