# What is the difference between spontaneous abortion and medical termination of pregnancy?

Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-is-the-difference-between-spontaneous-abortion-and-medical-termination-of-pregnancy
Language: en
Category: pregnancy
Publisher: ClinicsJo
Published: 2026-09-13T17:52:52.947Z
Content updated: 2026-09-13T17:52:52.947Z
Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/what-is-the-difference-between-spontaneous-abortion-and-medical-termination-of-pregnancy

Spontaneous abortion, also known as miscarriage, is the unintentional loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week of gestation. Conversely, medical termination of pregnancy is a deliberate procedure to end a pregnancy using medications or medical interventions, which must be performed under medical supervision [\[3\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-is-the-difference-between-spontaneous-abortion-and-medical-termination-of-pregnancy#source-S3>).

## Understanding Spontaneous Abortion (Miscarriage)

A spontaneous abortion occurs when a pregnancy ends on its own before the 20th week. Most cases of spontaneous abortion cannot be prevented, and they are typically not related to the mother's actions [\[3\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-is-the-difference-between-spontaneous-abortion-and-medical-termination-of-pregnancy#source-S3>).

## Understanding Medical Termination of Pregnancy

Medical termination of pregnancy is a procedure performed intentionally to end a pregnancy, either through medication or a surgical procedure. The type of procedure depends on several factors, including the gestational age and the patient's health status [\[2\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-is-the-difference-between-spontaneous-abortion-and-medical-termination-of-pregnancy#source-S2>). For example, medication abortion can be performed using medications such as mifepristone and misoprostol, which work to stop the pregnancy from progressing and empty the uterus [\[1\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-is-the-difference-between-spontaneous-abortion-and-medical-termination-of-pregnancy#source-S1>). Mifepristone is used in conjunction with misoprostol to terminate an intrauterine pregnancy up to 70 days (ten weeks) from the last menstrual period [\[1\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-is-the-difference-between-spontaneous-abortion-and-medical-termination-of-pregnancy#source-S1>).

### How does medical termination of pregnancy work?

Medication abortion typically involves a two-step process. First, mifepristone is taken to stop the pregnancy's growth by blocking progesterone, a hormone necessary for maintaining the pregnancy. After approximately 24 to 48 hours, misoprostol is taken, which causes contractions and bleeding to empty the uterus [\[1\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-is-the-difference-between-spontaneous-abortion-and-medical-termination-of-pregnancy#source-S1>). This procedure must be conducted under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider [\[1\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-is-the-difference-between-spontaneous-abortion-and-medical-termination-of-pregnancy#source-S1>).

### Side effects and risks

Side effects of medication abortion may include vaginal bleeding that is heavier than a menstrual period, severe cramping, nausea, vomiting, fever, and chills [\[2\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-is-the-difference-between-spontaneous-abortion-and-medical-termination-of-pregnancy#source-S2>). It is critical to follow up with a physician to ensure the termination is complete and to manage any potential complications [\[2\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-is-the-difference-between-spontaneous-abortion-and-medical-termination-of-pregnancy#source-S2>). Rare complications that may occur following medical termination of pregnancy include retained products of conception, heavy bleeding, infection, or uterine injury [\[4\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-is-the-difference-between-spontaneous-abortion-and-medical-termination-of-pregnancy#source-S4>). In cases of severe bleeding (e.g., soaking through two large sanitary pads per hour for two consecutive hours), emergency care must be sought immediately [\[4\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-is-the-difference-between-spontaneous-abortion-and-medical-termination-of-pregnancy#source-S4>).

## When should you consult a doctor?

If you are considering pregnancy termination, it is essential to speak with a healthcare provider as soon as possible. A physician can discuss the available options, explain the procedures, outline the potential risks and benefits, and provide guidance on self-care after the procedure [\[2\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-is-the-difference-between-spontaneous-abortion-and-medical-termination-of-pregnancy#source-S2>). Additionally, an ectopic pregnancy must be ruled out before undergoing medication abortion, as mifepristone should not be used if an ectopic pregnancy is confirmed or suspected [\[1\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-is-the-difference-between-spontaneous-abortion-and-medical-termination-of-pregnancy#source-S1>). For further information regarding pregnancy termination in critical cases, you may visit [Pregnancy termination options in critical medical cases (Arabic)](<https://clinicsjo.com/ar/articles/medical-termination-of-pregnancy-critical-cases>).

## Medical references

- [Questions and Answers on Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation](<https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/questions-and-answers-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation>)

- [Abortion Care](<https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/induced-abortion>)

- [Abortion](<https://medlineplus.gov/abortion.html>)

- [Complications of an abortion - NHS](<https://www.nhs.uk/tests-and-treatments/abortion/risks/>)

General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment.

Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-is-the-difference-between-spontaneous-abortion-and-medical-termination-of-pregnancy#answer