Infected Abortion - Septic Abortion

What are the treatments for the condition?

Immediate and aggressive treatment in a hospital is necessary to avoid serious complications of septic abortion. The woman should have intravenous (IV) fluids to maintain blood pressure and urine output. IV antibiotics will be given to cover a range of bacteria until the fever is gone. A dilatation and curettage (D & C) may be needed to clean out the uterus if fetal tissue has remained inside it.

A woman with Rh negative blood will be given an injection of Rh immune globulin, unless the father is also known to have Rh negative blood. In cases so severe that abscesses have formed in the ovaries and tubes, it may be necessary to remove the uterus and the infected organs.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Antibiotics may cause rash, upset stomach, or allergic reaction. Surgery can cause bleeding, further infection, or allergic reaction to anesthesia.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

Following a septic abortion, a woman may be tired for several weeks. Taking vitamins with iron once a day will help. She should not have intercourse or use tampons until recommended by the healthcare provider.

If another pregnancy is desired, a couple should wait three to six months after treatment is successfully completed to try to conceive. If they are not successful within a year, a test may done to see if the fallopian tubes were damaged by the infection. A woman should be alert to signs of depression. If she does become depressed, counseling or antidepressant medications can help.

How is the condition monitored?

Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.