Incomplete Abortion: Signs, Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis and Management

Experiencing an incomplete abortion can be distressing and concerning for individuals. It is essential to understand what an incomplete abortion is, its potential causes, and how to recognise its signs and symptoms. This knowledge can empower those affected to seek timely medical attention and receive appropriate care to ensure their health and well-being. In this article, we will explore the concept of an incomplete abortion, its causes, the signs to watch out for, and its treatment.

What is an Incomplete Abortion?

An incomplete abortion, also known as an incomplete miscarriage, occurs when some foetal or placental tissue remains in the uterus after an abortion or miscarriage. In a normal pregnancy or abortion, the uterus should expel all pregnancy-related tissue. However, in the case of an incomplete abortion, this process is not complete, and residual tissue is left behind.

Causes of Incomplete Abortion

Several factors can contribute to an incomplete abortion. These may include:

• Incomplete Procedure: In the case of induced abortion, an incomplete procedure can result in retained foetal or placental tissue, leading to an incomplete abortion.
• Molar Pregnancy: A molar pregnancy is a rare disorder where abnormal tissue forms instead of an embryo, which can lead to an incomplete abortion.
• Ectopic Pregnancy: If a fertilised egg attaches itself outside the uterus, for example, in the fallopian tube, it may lead to an incomplete abortion.
• Uterine Abnormalities: Certain structural abnormalities in the uterus can interfere with the complete expulsion of pregnancy tissue.

Signs and Symptoms of Incomplete Abortion

Recognising the signs and symptoms of an incomplete abortion is crucial for seeking prompt medical attention. Common indicators and signs of an incomplete abortion may include:

• Vaginal Bleeding: Persistent or heavy vaginal bleeding is a primary symptom of an incomplete abortion. The bleeding may be accompanied by clotting and tissue passing.
• Abdominal Pain: Women may experience abdominal pain or discomfort, which can vary from mild to severe. Although this is an ambiguous sign of an incomplete abortion, one must not ignore severe abdominal pain after an abortion.
• Fever: A low-grade fever may develop due to the body's response to the retained tissue.
• Foul-Smelling Vaginal Discharge: An unusual or foul-smelling discharge may be noticed, which is a sign of an incomplete abortion.
• Pain or Tenderness in the Uterine Area: Some individuals may experience pain or tenderness in the lower abdominal or uterine area.

Side Effects of Incomplete Abortion

An incomplete abortion can have several side effects and complications if not managed promptly. These may include:

• Infection: Retained tissue can become a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to infection. This can result in symptoms of incomplete abortion, such as fever, chills, and increased pain.
• Excessive Bleeding: If the retained tissue triggers excessive bleeding, it can lead to anaemia and other complications.
• Emotional Distress: The emotional toll of experiencing an incomplete abortion can be significant, leading to anxiety, depression, and grief.
• Future Fertility Concerns: In some cases, an incomplete abortion may result in scarring or damage to the uterus, potentially impacting future fertility.

Diagnosis of Incomplete Abortion

Diagnosing an incomplete abortion is a crucial step in providing the appropriate care and management. Healthcare providers employ several methods to accurately diagnose this condition, which may include:

• Clinical Evaluation: A healthcare provider will begin by conducting a thorough clinical assessment. They will inquire about the individual's medical history, including the details of the current pregnancy, the onset of symptoms, and any relevant risk factors.
• Pelvic Examination: A pelvic examination is often performed to assess the cervix and the uterus. The healthcare provider may check for cervical dilation and the presence of retained tissue.
• Ultrasound: Transvaginal ultrasound is a valuable tool for diagnosing incomplete abortions. This imaging technique allows healthcare providers to visualise the uterus and assess the extent of retained tissue. It helps confirm whether an incomplete abortion has occurred and guides further management of incomplete abortions.
• Blood Tests: Blood tests, such as a complete blood count (CBC), may be conducted to evaluate the individual's overall health and to assess factors such as haemoglobin levels, which can provide insights into the severity of bleeding.
• Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) Levels: Blood tests to measure hCG levels can help determine the presence of pregnancy and whether it is progressing normally. A slowing or plateau in hCG levels can be indicative of an incomplete abortion.

Management of Incomplete Abortions

When observed keenly, the causes and management of incomplete abortions go hand in hand. The management of an incomplete abortion typically involves medical or surgical interventions. The approach chosen by a healthcare provider depends on the individual's condition, the amount of retained tissue, and other factors. The following are some of the common management options:

• Management: In some cases, the healthcare provider may choose to monitor the individual's condition without immediate intervention. This approach is often reserved for situations where the retained tissue is minimal, and there are no signs of infection or excessive bleeding.
• Medication: Medication may be prescribed to help the uterus expel the remaining tissue. This is typically considered when the individual's condition is stable, and there are no signs of infection.
• Surgical Intervention: If the retained tissue is significant, or if there are signs of infection, a surgical procedure, including dilation and curettage (D&C) may be performed. D&C involves the removal of the remaining tissue from the uterus.
• Follow-Up Care: After the management of an incomplete abortion, individuals will often receive follow-up care to ensure that their condition is resolving as expected. This may include additional ultrasound examinations and monitoring for potential complications.

Conclusion

An incomplete abortion can be a challenging and distressing experience, but with prompt medical attention and appropriate management, individuals can achieve the best possible outcomes. It's essential for anyone experiencing the signs and symptoms of an incomplete abortion to seek medical care promptly. Healthcare providers are well-equipped to diagnose the condition and determine the most suitable management approach, which may include expectant management, medication, or surgical intervention. Timely and comprehensive care can help individuals recover and minimise potential complications associated with incomplete abortions.