M Arshad Chohan, Asma Ansari, Wasim Yusuf, Saad Rana.
Induced Abortion: Presentation and complications.
Pak J Obstet Gynaecol Jan ;12(1,2):78-82.

50 patients admitted with history of induced abortion were analysed for the presenting complaints and complications. 70% patients were between the ages of 26-30 yeras. 74% were of the parity more than 3. Majority of cases were handled by Dais or LHVs. Symptoms related to sepsis were found to be the most common presenting complaints. 90% of the patients had pyrexia (33 cases), 66% presented with abdominal pain, abdominal distension was present in 26%, (13 cases) while 38% (19) had abdominal mass and 18% (9 cases) presented with septic shock. Hemorrhage was not a common problem and was heavy in only 5 cases (10%). The complications were mainly related to sepsis. 19 (38%) patients had localised pelvic infection. 26% patients developed septicemia, and septic shock complicated another 13 (26%). Acute renal failure occured in 5 cases (10%) and DIC developed in 3 cases i.e. 6%. Uterine perforation was found in 34%, bowel damage in 9 cases (18%), and bladder damage in 2% cases. 34% i.e. 17 cases had minor genital tract injuries. This concludes that illegally induced abortion remains a prominent cause of maternal morbidity in our society.

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