Citation

Akaba GO, Adeka BI, Ogolekwu PI. Eur. J. Contracept. Reprod. Health Care 2013; 18(4): 319-321.

Affiliation

* Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2013, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.3109/13625187.2013.805407

PMID

23782154

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.

Language: en