What is a key characteristic of spontaneous abortion?

A key characteristic of spontaneous abortion, also known as miscarriage, is that it occurs naturally before the 20th week of pregnancy. This characteristic distinguishes spontaneous abortion from other types of pregnancy loss, such as induced abortions, which are intentionally medical procedures.

Spontaneous abortions can happen due to various factors including chromosomal abnormalities, hormonal imbalances, or structural issues with the uterus, but they do so without medical intervention being the initiating cause. Recognizing the time frame—prior to the 20th week—as a crucial aspect helps to differentiate it from other clinical situations where pregnancy termination might be sought or required post that period.

Additionally, while some spontaneous abortions can have identifiable causes, many do not, which further underlines the spontaneous nature of the occurrence. Understanding the timeline and nature of spontaneous abortion is vital for both clinical practice and patient education.