Septic/unsafe abortion: a preventable tragedy.

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Unsafe abortion is a major healthcare issue in developing nations like Pakistan due to restricted abortion laws.
• Women resort to clandestine procedures, leading to severe health complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of septic induced abortion in Pakistan.
• To analyze associated morbidity and mortality.
• To identify measures for reducing unsafe abortion complications.

Main Methods:

• A 5-year cross-sectional descriptive study (2007-2011) at Ayub Teaching Hospital, Abbottabad.
• Inclusion criteria: patients with signs of septic abortion post-intervention.
• Management included antibiotics, surgical evacuation, and multidisciplinary care for severe cases.

Main Results:

• 110 cases (11.36%) of unsafe abortion identified among 968 spontaneous abortions.
• High rates of vaginal discharge (56.4%), bleeding (34.5%), acute abdomen (21.8%), shock (18.9%), and DIC (6.8%).
• Mortality rate was 16.36%, with septicaemia as the leading cause; 49% used termination for contraception.

Conclusions:

• Death and severe morbidity from unsafe abortions are preventable.
• Key interventions include health education, effective contraception, and timely medical management.
• Early recognition and prompt treatment are vital for reducing mortality.