Induced Abortion and its Complications

Abstract

Induced abortion with its complications is an important cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. Retrospective analysis of the record of 89 females with induced abortion, showed the commonest reason to seek abortion was unplanned pregnancy. The majority of patients were not using any contraceptive methods. 72(80.9%) had pregnancy termination in early weeks of gestation (within 12 weeks). Most abortions were induced by LRV, Dais in septic conditions by dilatation and curettage. The commonest mode of presentation was post abortion sepsis (79.7%) followed by haemorrhage (30%) and gut injury (11.2%). The conservative management with minor surgical intervention was the mainstay of therapy (79%). However 26% of cases required exploratory laparotomy to deal with uterine and gut injuries. The post treatment results are very encouraging with overall mortality of 3.3%. This study highlights the need for proper family planning counseling and services.