Problems from a pregnancy that ends early
Ask how the pregnancy ended. If the woman had a miscarriage or if her abortion
was provided by a trained health worker who used sterile tools, she is less likely to
have serious infection or injury than a woman whose abortion was done by
someone who used unsafe tools. For
example, if the woman tells you that
Remember, women may not
someone used a sharp wire to give her
talk easily about what happened
an abortion, you will know to look
after a miscarriage or abortion.
for signs of injury inside the body
Ask questions respectfully.
(page 413).
And be sure she knows you
The rest of this chapter describes
how to help a woman who is having
problems after a miscarriage or abortion.
will not share what she tells
you with anyone except other
health workers.
Tell women how to care for themselves
A woman should take good care of herself for a few days after any miscarriage or
abortion. This can prevent her from getting an infection, and will help her body
heal faster. Women should:
• drink plenty of liquids and
eat nutritious food
(see pages 33 to 42).
Have some more
water, Mama.
• rest often.
• avoid heavy work for a week.
• bathe regularly, but should not
douche or sit in a bath or tub
of water until a few days
after the bleeding stops.
• use clean cloths or pads
to catch any blood, and
change the pads often.
Also, the woman should not put anything inside
her vagina, and should not have sexual intercourse
for at least 2 weeks, and not until a few days after
she stops bleeding.
405
A Book for Midwives (2010)