Abortion

On this page, you will find everything you need to know regarding Abortion.

What is Abortion?

Abortion is the loss of pregnancy before the completion of the gestation period due to various reasons. It can occur spontaneously and naturally, often during the first trimester, which is referred to as early abortion, or during the second or third trimester, known as late abortion. It can also be the result of a surgical intervention to preserve the mother’s life or when the child’s medical condition is incompatible with life due to a severe disability. abortion procedures are generally safe with a low risk of complications, but it is essential to monitor for any issues to prevent bleeding or infection.

What are the types of abortion?

• Threatened abortion: Vaginal bleeding occurs without the cervix opening. It may develop into a complete miscarriage, but the pregnancy often continues without complications.
• Inevitable abortion: Bleeding accompanied by painful cramps and an open cervix, indicating that a miscarriage is unavoidable.
• Incomplete abortion: Some pregnancy tissue passes out, while some remains in the uterus, which necessitates a medical intervention. It is more common in late miscarriages.
• Missed abortion: The fetus has died or failed to develop, but the tissue remains in the uterus. It is usually detected via ultrasound.
• Septic abortion: The uterus becomes infected after a miscarriage. This is a serious condition that requires immediate medical care.
• Complete abortion: All pregnancy tissue is expelled from the uterus. This typically occurs during early miscarriages (before 12 weeks).
• Recurrent abortion: Occurs when a woman experiences two or more consecutive miscarriages.

What are the symptoms of abortion?

• Vaginal bleeding.
• Lower abdominal pain and cramps.
• Expulsion of clots or tissue with bleeding.
• Back pain.
• Weight loss.
• Loss of pregnancy symptoms, such as breast tenderness or nausea.

What are the causes of abortion?

  Chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus that prevent normal development.

• Uterine problems: Such as polycystic ovaries, uterine abnormalities, or premature cervical opening.
• Maternal age: The risk of miscarriage increases with age.
• Chronic diseases: Including diabetes and kidney disease.
• Endocrine disorders: Such as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.
• Infections: Including rubella and herpes.
• Smoking and excessive caffeine intake.
• Abdominal trauma.
• Blood clotting disorders.
• Food poisoning: Such as salmonella.

How is miscarriage diagnosed?

The doctor will take the medical history and perform a physical examination. Additional procedures may be requested as needed, including:

• Laboratory tests.
• Ultrasound examinations.

How is abortion is treated?

Treatment can be done by several procedures, or it depends on the circumstances of the abortion, it includes the following:

• Complete abortion: It does not require a medical intervention; the body expels all fetal tissue naturally. However, monitoring for complications is essential.
• Incomplete abortion: Requires medical intervention through medication or surgery.
• Surgical treatment: Dilation and curettage (D&C) or vacuum aspiration to remove fetal tissue.
• Medication: Drugs that induce uterine contractions to expel tissue.

How can abortion be prevented?

While most miscarriages cannot be prevented, the following measures may reduce the risk:

• Avoid smoking and exposure to it during pregnancy.
• Following a healthy, balanced diet during pregnancy.
• Exercising and maintaining a healthy weight before conception.
• Undergo preconception screenings and ensure required supplements are taken.
• Avoid infections during pregnancy, such as rubella.
• Avoid food and beverages that may cause harm to the baby, such as high caffeine and certain seafood.
• Consult a doctor before taking medications with a prescription.
• Inform the doctor about the pregnancy before undergoing any medical procedure, including X-rays.
• Avoid high-risk sports, such as jump rope.
• Management of chronic diseases and their medical follow-up during pregnancy.

What are the complications of abortion?

• Severe bleeding.
• Uterine infection.
• Uterine perforation or damage to reproductive organs during surgical procedures (D&C or suction).

When should you see a Doctor?

Seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur:

• Heavy vaginal bleeding.
• Fever over 38.5°C (101.3°F).
• Lower abdominal pain.

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I try to get pregnant again after an abortion?

It is recommended to wait until the menstrual cycle returns to normal. After that, consult your Obstetrician/Gynecologist to plan the next pregnancy.

Does vaginal bleeding during pregnancy always indicate abortion?
No, light bleeding may occur naturally during the first trimester and does not always indicate a miscarriage.

Do physical exercises increase the risk of abortion?
No, but it is advisable to consult your doctor before engaging in exercise during pregnancy.

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