Magnitude, pattern, and clinical outcomes of abortion in Southwest Ethiopia: A retrospective cross-sectional study

Objectives: To assess the pattern, magnitude, and clinical outcomes of abortion cases managed at Mettu Karl Comprehensive Specialised Hospital. Material and Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional review was conducted on medical records of abortion cases managed at the Gynaecology Department of Mettu Karl Comprehensive Specialised Hospital, covering patient records from January 2024 to December 2024. Data was collected in March 2025 using a structured checklist. Data were analysed using the statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 26.0. Results: During the study period, 304 of 1,983 gynaecology outpatients (15.3%) were managed for abortion cases. Most patients (69.4%) resided in rural areas, and the majority were aged 20–24 years (37.5%) and 25–29 years (35.9%). Spontaneous abortions accounted for 77.3%, and induced abortions accounted for 22.7%. Incomplete abortion was the leading clinical type (66.4%). Major complications included anaemia (21.7%), haemorrhagic shock (10.5%), sepsis (7.6%), and 6 maternal deaths (2.0%). Maternal deaths were primarily attributed to irreversible septic shock and severe haemorrhagic shock following delayed presentation. Major surgical interventions (hysterectomy/laparotomy, 1.3%) were indicated for severe uterine perforation and extensive pelvic abscess. Manual vacuum aspiration (61.8%) was the most common surgical treatment. Conclusion: Abortion represents a substantial proportion of gynaecological admissions with considerable complications and mortality. Strengthening preventive measures, post-abortion contraceptive counselling, and timely emergency care is critical.