Maryam M., 23

Maryam is a young married woman who lives with her husband, Musa, in a small single-room house. Musa works as a petty trader, while Maryam supports the family by selling groundnuts and palm oil from home. Together, they earn approximately ₦6,500, an income that is often insufficient to meet their daily needs.

Maryam was admitted for treatment of acute diarrhea and chronic pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) during pregnancy. She was carefully monitored to ensure the safety of both her and her unborn baby. She received oral rehydration solution (ORS) and intravenous fluids to correct dehydration and restore lost electrolytes caused by frequent diarrhea. To prevent and treat infection, she was started on pregnancy-safe antibiotics, including Ceftriaxone and Metronidazole, under close medical supervision. Paracetamol was administered to relieve pain, fever, and discomfort. Maryam was also given iron supplements (haematinics) and folic acid to support her health and pregnancy. She received nutritional counseling and was encouraged to maintain adequate fluid intake and proper hygiene practices to prevent recurrence of diarrhea and infection. During her hospital stay, her diarrhea gradually resolved, her strength returned, and the pelvic pain and discomfort significantly improved. Regular assessments confirmed that both mother and baby remained stable throughout treatment. By the time of discharge, Maryam had recovered well and was in stable condition. She was advised to complete her medications, continue antenatal care, maintain good nutrition and hydration, and attend follow-up visits to ensure a healthy pregnancy and full recovery.

Doctor’s Opinion and Prognosis Maryam was diagnosed with acute diarrhea and chronic pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) during pregnancy, a condition that placed both her health and that of her unborn baby at risk. The severe diarrhea resulted in dehydration, weakness, and electrolyte imbalance, while the chronic PID contributed to ongoing pelvic infection and discomfort. Without prompt treatment, these conditions could have led to serious complications such as worsening infection, preterm labor, poor maternal health, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Due to the combined risks, Maryam required immediate medical attention and close monitoring. She was promptly treated with rehydration therapy, pregnancy-safe medications, antibiotics, and supportive care. Her condition improved steadily, with resolution of the diarrhea, reduction in pelvic pain, and stabilization of the pregnancy. The prognosis is good because of the timely diagnosis and appropriate medical intervention. With continued antenatal care, adherence to prescribed medications, proper nutrition, and regular follow-up visits, Maryam is expected to recover well and continue her pregnancy safely. Close monitoring remains important to ensure the ongoing health of both mother and baby.