Health consequences of induced abortion

Abstract

Perforation of the uterus presents one of the gravest complications of emptying the pregnant uterus. induced abortion has emerged as one of the major share-holders of maternal mortality in third world countries. Of particulars importance is the fact that most of the illegal abortions, performed in the underdeveloped and developing countries, are attempted in older, multiparous women, increasing the risks many- fold. In the present article, a typical case of induced abortion, resulting in severe bowel injury, is presented followed by a discussion of the extent of the problem and its moral, social, and financial implications. Attention is drawn to the important role obstetrician / gynecologist can play, by providing better maternal / child health services, in an effort to reduce the incidence of induced abortion.