WebMD
Font Size
A
A
A

Septic abortion

Septic abortion is a miscarriage or abortion that is accompanied by severe infection of the uterus that spreads to the woman's bloodstream. Septic abortion is usually a very serious health problem that requires hospitalization.

Sometimes a woman's condition is life-threatening, in which case her uterus usually must be surgically removed. This is called a hysterectomy.

Author Merrill Hayden
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor Terrina Vail
Primary Medical Reviewer Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH
- Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Kirtly Jones, MD
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
Last Updated May 23, 2006

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: May 23, 2006
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
@ 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.