Is Miscarriage the Same as Abortion?

With abortion no longer legal in Oklahoma, many people have questions about how these laws impact miscarriage care. Unfortunately, some of the information being shared—especially online—has caused confusion and worry.



One common misunderstanding is the idea that a miscarriage is the same thing as an abortion. While both terms may appear in medical records, they are not the same, and Oklahoma’s abortion laws do not restrict access to miscarriage care.

difference between miscarriage and abortion

What Is a Miscarriage?

A miscarriage, also known medically as a “spontaneous abortion,” is the natural loss of a pregnancy before 20 weeks gestation (ACOG, 2023). It is not caused by medical intervention and happens in about 10–20% of known pregnancies (Mayo Clinic, 2024).

Miscarriages can occur for many reasons, including:

• Chromosomal abnormalities
• Hormonal imbalances
• Underlying health conditions
• Infections
• Unknown causes
  

What Is an Abortion?

In medical terms, abortion refers to the deliberate termination of a pregnancy through medication or a surgical procedure. This is also called an induced abortion.

The key difference is intent:

• Miscarriage (spontaneous abortion) – The pregnancy ends naturally without medical intervention causing it.
  
• Induced abortion – A medical procedure or medication is used to intentionally end a pregnancy.

Why the Terms Can Cause Confusion

In the medical field, the word “abortion” can appear on hospital records to describe both spontaneous and induced pregnancy loss. For example:

• Spontaneous abortion = miscarriage
  
• Induced abortion = elective or medical abortion procedure
  
  

This terminology can be unsettling if you’ve experienced a miscarriage and see the word “abortion” in your paperwork—but rest assured, they are not the same thing legally or practically in Oklahoma.

Miscarriage Care in Oklahoma is Legal

Oklahoma’s abortion restrictions do not apply to miscarriage care (Oklahoma State Statutes, Title 63). Hospitals, emergency rooms, and OB/GYN providers across the state are legally allowed—and medically obligated—to treat miscarriage.

Miscarriage care may involve:

• Ultrasound to confirm pregnancy loss
• Medications to help the body pass pregnancy tissue if needed (ACOG Practice Bulletin #200, 2018, reaffirmed 2023)
  
• Surgical procedures (such as D&C) to prevent infection or complications
  
• Emotional and physical recovery support

If you are experiencing miscarriage symptoms such as heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, fever, or passing large clots, seek emergency medical care immediately

The Danger of Misinformation

Misinformation can discourage people from seeking urgent care for miscarriage, which can lead to severe complications, infection, and even death. Delaying care out of fear or confusion is dangerous.

If you or someone you know is having miscarriage symptoms, do not wait—Oklahoma hospitals are both equipped and legally permitted to provide treatment.

We’re Here for You

If you’re facing pregnancy loss or unsure whether your symptoms may be a miscarriage, our no-cost, confidential services can help you get clarity and connect you to the medical care you need.

Our licensed medical staff can:

• Confirm if your pregnancy is viable
  
• Provide information on next steps
  
• Offer emotional support and referrals for follow-up care
  
  

You do not need insurance, and there are no age restrictions for receiving care at our clinics.

Bottom line: A miscarriage is not the same as an abortion under Oklahoma law, and miscarriage care remains legal and accessible throughout the state. If you have questions about your pregnancy or need support, schedule your free appointment at one of our Oklahoma locations today.