Incomplete abortion is defi ned as the presence of
retained products of conception with no well-defi ned
gestation sac. It is a potentially life-threatening
condition that without well-timed and proper treatment
can lead to severe complications such as haemorrhagic
shock, sepsis, and death. Abortion-related complications
still contribute substantially to maternal morbidity and
mortality in sub-Saharan Africa. Backup treatment of
complications from unsafe abortion and spontaneous
abortion (post-abortion care) is an eff ective
intervention to reduce maternal mortality. The postabortion care model consists of emergency treatment of abortion-related complications, post-abortion contraceptive counselling, and free contraception. The lack of physicians in many low-income countries restricts women’s access to post-abortion care. In Africa, the shortage of trained health-care providers is greatest in rural and remote areas where maternal mortality and morbidity is highest. |
