An incomplete abortion occurs when the pregnancy terminates, but not all of the products of conception have been expelled from the uterus. According to the available information, it's characterized by an open cervical os and bleeding.
Understanding Incomplete Abortion
An incomplete abortion signifies that the uterus has not fully emptied after a miscarriage or induced abortion. This situation requires medical intervention to prevent complications.
Key Characteristics
Here's a breakdown of the defining features:
- Open Cervical Os: The cervix is open, indicating that the uterus is in the process of expelling tissue.
- Bleeding: Vaginal bleeding is present, often heavier than a normal menstrual period.
- Retained Tissue: Some or all of the pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus. The expelled products are not consistent with the estimated duration of pregnancy, meaning the amount of tissue passed may be less than expected.
Common Symptoms
Besides the key characteristics, other symptoms may include:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Abdominal pain
Management of Incomplete Abortion
Typically, an incomplete abortion requires medical management to ensure the uterus is completely emptied. This can involve:
- Medication: Medications can help the uterus contract and expel the remaining tissue.
- Surgical Procedure (Dilation and Curettage - D&C): A surgical procedure to remove any remaining tissue from the uterus.
Example Scenario
Imagine a woman who was 8 weeks pregnant experiences heavy vaginal bleeding and severe abdominal cramping. She passes some tissue, but the bleeding continues, and she still experiences significant pain. Upon examination, her cervix is open. This scenario is highly suggestive of an incomplete abortion.
