infected abortion

An infected abortion is a pregnancy termination associated with an infection of the reproductive organs. This can occur after a spontaneous or induced abortion. Endometritis, an inflammation of the uterine lining, is a common cause of infection following abortion, childbirth, or gynecological procedures. Bacteria, including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus, and Streptococcus, are frequent culprits.12

Symptoms can range from asymptomatic to fever, abdominal pain, and abnormal vaginal bleeding. If left untreated, an infected abortion can lead to serious complications such as infertility, abscess formation, or sepsis, a life-threatening condition where bacteria enter the bloodstream. Diagnosis involves a pelvic exam and laboratory cultures, with treatment typically consisting of antibiotics.23