Introduction
Abortion is when a pregnancy is ended so that it doesn’t result in the birth of a child. It is also called termination of pregnancy.
We have different types of abortion which include complete abortion, septic abortion, safe abortion, missed abortion, inevitable abortion, incomplete abortion, threatened abortion etc.
Symptoms of a threatened abortion
The following are the symptoms of a threatened abortion
- Scanty to moderate painless vaginal bleeding
- Mild pelvic discomfort
Signs of a threatened abortion
The signs of a threatened abortion include the following
- The uterine size is compatible with the gestational age
- There is no cervical effacement or dilatation
Investigations
- FBC and sickling
- Ultrasound scan (to confirm viable foetus in utero with closed cervix)
- Other investigations for potential underlying causes e.g. malaria
Treatment for a threatened abortion
Treatment objectives
The treatment objective of a threatened abortion is:
- To maintain a viable pregnancy to term if possible
Non-pharmacological treatment
- Bed rest at home or hospital
- To abstain from sexual intercourse
- To report back if bleeding or pain increases
Pharmacological treatment
- No specific treatment required
- Treat any underlying illnesses e.g. malaria