| Inevitable abortion refers to dilation of the cervix without expulsion of the products of conception. In these cases, a D&C is usually recommended.
Missed abortion refers to fetal demise without expulse of the products of conception. These women have a widely variable success rate with expectant management, but misoprostol has been shown in at least one study to have an 80% success rate.
Septic abortion is characterized by a spontaneous abortion with a secondary or underlying intrauterine infection, and should be surgically treated, followed by appropriate antibiotic therapy.
In all Rh negative patients, a 50 mcg dose of RhoGam, or Rho(D) immune globulin, should be administered to avoid maternal sensitization. Contraception, if desired, is immediately and folic acid should be supplemented before attempting another pregnancy. |