Septic Abortion
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are over 40-50 million abortions done every year, of which approximately 125,000 abortions are done in a day. But, did you know that if performed incorrectly, an abortion can go horrible wrong. And, this could result in a very serious uterine infection. This has been termed as a Septic Abortion. Septic abortion treatment must be done by a doctor at all costs.
Abortion around the World and in India
About 70% of the world has legalized abortion, while America has taken it to the extent of the woman being able to abort a child after the normal 20 weeks (over five months).
In India, abortion has been legalized but, only up to 20 weeks of pregnancy. Even this has been limited to certain cases, such as
- If the pregnant woman’s life is at risk
- The fetus will face physical abnormalities after birth
- Victims of rape
- Under the age of 18, with guardian consent
- If the woman suffers with mental illness. But, only under the consent of the guardian.
There are many countries where Abortion has not been legalized under any circumstances, and this could be the cause of the increase in septic abortions. As, no proper facilities have been made available. This is also the cause of deaths as, there are no many people willing provide septic abortion treatment.
Causes
Septic abortion often occurs after the procedure is over. It prevails when the uterus is contaminated with a bacterial infection. In extreme cases, the infection can spread to other areas of your body, causing your immune system to fail.
The main cause of a septic abortion is the result of inexperienced practitioners performing the procedure, as well as unhygienic equipment being used. This can also cause the septic abortion treatment to go wrong for the patient.
Signs and Symptoms
There are many signs and symptoms, and these usually appear within 24-48 hours of the procedure.
1. High fever – above 101°C
2. Heavy vaginal bleeding that suddenly stops (In the case of a miscarriage)
3. Prolonged, continuous vaginal bleeding (in the case of an abortion)
4. Severe back and abdominal pain
5. Foul smelling vaginal discharge
What Harm Can It Cause?
Although the symptoms may mimic that of a cold or urinary infection, if not taken care of immediately, it could become highly fatal.
1. Low blood pressure
2. Kidney failure
3. Hypothermia
4. Intestinal blockage
5. Infertility
6. Respiratory failure
7. Cardiac arrest
How to Test for Septic Abortion
1. Blood Test
Firstly, a check on your white blood count, organ functions and oxygen level in your blood will be tested.
2. Urinary Sample
Secondly, it is quite normal for your urine to be tested for bacteria.
3. X-Ray of the Chest
This is done mainly to check for any signs of pneumonia.
4. ECG
This is done to check the supply of blood to your heart. And also, to ensure that it is functioning properly.
Septic Abortion Treatment
Septic abortion treatment can be quite simple or elaborate, depending on how bad the infection is. The woman is immediately put onto IV Fluids, in order to maintain her blood pressure and urine output. Also with this, uterine evacuation will also be performed in order to get rid of any bacterial infection present within the uterus.
Prevention
Always keep in mind that prevention is better than cure! Therefore, here are a few ways to avoid Septic abortions.
1. Avoid Unintended Pregnancy
It’s as simple as this! Use whatever means necessary to do so. Either avoid sexual intercourse all together or use preventative methods like birth control and condoms.
2. Safe Abortion
Make sure that the procedure is performed in a safe and hygienic environment.
3. Consult Your Doctor
Consult your doctor should you experience any of the above symptoms. This is especially advised in the case of a miscarriage.