Hysterosalpingography Tubal Infertility in an Environment with Non Liberalized Abortion Law

Most induced abortions in Nigeria are performed by non medical and paramedical personnel in unregistered health centers due to the non liberalization of abortion laws. This has resulted in increased abortion related complications. To determine the effect of induced abortions, especially by non medical doctors on hysterosalpingographic tubal abnormalities. The study included 110 consecutive infertile patients referred to the Radiology Department for Hysterosalpingography over a year period. Appropriate questionnaires were administered after informed consent and prior to the procedure (HSG). The data was analyzed using EPI info 2000 and the association between induced abortion and tubal abnormalities were measured using χ2-test and Fischer Exact test (where appropriate) and 2-sided p<0.05 was used as significant level. Past history of dilatation and curettage at unregistered hospitals (by non medical personnel) was found to be statistically significant for hydrosalpinges (p<0.01; odd ratio 15.6; 95% CF 3.05-106.49); tubal blockage (Fischer s exact 0.039; odd ratio 9.3; 95% CI = 1.05-18.19. Criminal abortions, often performed by quacks in Nigeria due to its illegality is found to be significantly associated with tubal pathology in infertile couples.