Breast Symptoms After Pregnancy Loss and Abortion: An Observational Study [03J

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: We aimed to determine the prevalence, duration and bother of breast symptoms (engorgement, tenderness and leakage) after 1st and 2nd trimester pregnancy loss and abortion; an under-studied area in obstetrics and gynecology. METHODS: We enrolled a convenience sample of 86 patients seen for pregnancy loss and abortion services at the Duke Family Planning Clinic. Participants were surveyed using the Bristol Breast Symptoms Inventory on the day of medical or surgical abortion, after three to four days, and at two weeks. RESULTS: Of the patients enrolled, 59 were in their 1st trimester and 27 were in their 2nd trimester. The average age was 32; the majority of patients had a prior pregnancy and were white or African American. At time of presentation, 42% reported engorgement, 61% reported tenderness, and 6% reported leakage. The majority of patients with tenderness or engorgement reported the symptoms as bothersome and this proportion increased as time progressed. First trimester patients’ symptoms decreased over time, while symptoms persisted for 2nd trimester patients. At two weeks, 40% of 2nd trimester patients reported engorgement, 50% reported tenderness, and 20% reported leakage. There were no differences in symptoms by route of or reason for abortion. CONCLUSION: Breast engorgement and tenderness are common and bothersome following pregnancy loss and abortion. Breast symptoms can persist for many patients with pregnancy loss or abortion in the 2nd trimester. Determining those at higher risk for breast symptoms and adapting procedural counseling to address these symptoms may improve patient-centered care.