A review of the complications from unsafe abortions in Ilorin, Nigeria

This is a retrospective evaluation of the 220 patients that presented at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (U.I.T.H.) with complications from unsafe abortions between 1st January 1986 and 31st December 1999. History of previous induced abortion was found in 80.5% of patients while only 6.8% had previous contraceptive use. Sepsis 204 (92.7%) with abscess formation in 64.9%, visceral injuries 62(28.2%) with haemoperitoneum in 25.9% and maternal mortality was recorded in 26.4% of the series. Findings are comparable with previous studies from this centre between 1981 and 1985 and with reports from other parts of the world. The need for behavioural change within the society and the re-training of physicians in post-abortal care is emphasized. Keywords: unsafe abortions, complications, maternal mortality The Tropical Journal of Health Sciences Vol. 13(1) 2006: 1-