Abortion stick-induced unsafe abortion: a rare modern occurrence and the diagnostic and therapeutic role of hysteroscopy.

Unsafe abortion remains a critical public health issue, particularly in regions with limited access to safe and legal abortion services. This case report highlights the rare use of an abortion stick-a hazardous method involving the insertion of foreign objects into the uterus and its associated complications. A newly married woman in her 20s presented with lower abdominal pain, foul-smelling vaginal discharge and infertility following an unsafe abortion facilitated by a traditional birth attendant. Hysteroscopic evaluation revealed a 9 cm wooden stick within the uterine cavity, which was successfully removed. This case underscores the severe consequences of unsafe abortion practices, including chronic infection, uterine trauma and infertility. It also demonstrates the indispensable role of hysteroscopy in diagnosing and managing complications from unsafe abortions, preventing the need for more invasive surgical interventions. The report emphasises the need for improved access to safe reproductive healthcare.