Multiple visceral injuries suffered during an illegal induced abortion – A case report

Abstract

Objectives Abortion in Nigeria is permitted only to save a woman's life. Most abortions in that country take place under unsafe conditions and constitute a major source of maternal morbidity and mortality. We present a case of multiple visceral injuries complicating an induced abortion.

Case A 28-year-old multiparous woman at 12 weeks’ gestation had an induced abortion by dilatation and curettage in a private clinic. The procedure was complicated by uterine perforation and bowel injury, with protrusion of gangrenous loops of bowel from the vagina. At laparotomy the uterus was repaired, and a bowel resection with re-anastomosis was performed. The patient's recovery was uneventful.

Conclusions Increasing the uptake of contraception, training healthcare providers in safe methods of induced abortion, and liberalising abortion laws can reduce abortion-related morbidity and mortality in Nigeria.

KEYWORDS:

• Unsafe abortion
• Visceral injuries
• Contraception
• Nigeria

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflict of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and the writing of the paper.