Publication:

Outcome of septic abortion in a tertiary care hospital

Background Septic abortion is a significant cause of maternal morbidity and mortality, particularly in resource-limited settings. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of septic abortion and identify associated risk factors and complications.

Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Dhaka Medical College Hospital, from January to June 2013. Fifty patients with septic abortion were purposively sampled based on defined inclusion criteria. Data were collected through interviews and clinical records and analysed using SPSS version 16.

Results The mean age of patients was 30.62±6.34 years, with 34% aged 31-35 years. Most were multiparous (82%) and illiterate (52%). Induced abortions accounted for 66% of cases, with 58% performed by untrained individuals. Abdominal tenderness (94%), abdominal pain (70%) and per-vaginal bleeding (64%) were the most common clinical presentations. Complications included pelvic abscess (24%), uterine perforation (22%) and disseminated intravascular coagulation (18%). Maternal mortality was 6%.

Conclusions Unsafe abortions induced by untrained personnel remain a major contributor to maternal morbidity and mortality. Improved access to family planning, education and safe abortion services is essential to mitigate these outcomes. Comprehensive post-abortion care, including contraceptive counselling, is crucial.