The Power of Language: Spontaneous Abortion vs. Miscarriage
In a previous blog post, I discussed the importance of language and its profound impact on our perceptions, emotions, and even societal beliefs. Language shapes our understanding, and sometimes the words we choose can unintentionally perpetuate stigma or misunderstanding. In recent years, I have revisited and updated the language I use when talking about pregnancy loss, specifically transitioning from the commonly used term miscarriage to the medically accurate term spontaneous abortion.
Why Language Matters: Spontaneous Abortion vs. Miscarriage
Medically, spontaneous abortion refers to what is commonly known as a miscarriage. Yet, the significance of using one term over the other lies in the implications of the language itself. The term miscarriage subtly suggests that the pregnant person did something wrong—that they somehow "mis-carried" the pregnancy. This terminology can reinforce feelings of guilt or self-blame, despite the overwhelming medical evidence that the majority of miscarriages are due to chromosomal abnormalities or issues with fetal development. These are factors that the pregnant person cannot control.
The truth is, most early pregnancy losses are related to the cellular formation of the fetus, completely unrelated to behavioral patterns of the pregnant person. In other words, nothing the pregnant person did, or didn’t do, caused the pregnancy to end. Using the term spontaneous abortion is a step toward a more medically accurate and blame-free understanding of what is a deeply emotional and often traumatic experience.
The Emotional Complexity of the Term "Abortion"
I recognize, however, that the word abortion can carry heavy emotional weight, especially in the current social and political climate. With access to abortion becoming increasingly restricted in certain areas, and with the term itself often surrounded by fear, controversy, and emotional distress, spontaneous abortion may feel harsh or difficult for some to hear.
Even though this is the medically correct term, it doesn’t always resonate emotionally for everyone who has gone through the experience. In reality, no single term can encapsulate the varied emotions, trauma, or relief that different people may feel following an unexpected end to a pregnancy. For some, the term spontaneous abortion can feel detached or clinical, while for others, it may feel more precise and freeing. Ultimately, we cannot expect one phrase to fit everyone's experience perfectly, but we can aim to be intentional in how we use our language.
Inclusive Language: Pregnant Person vs. Woman
Another shift in language you may notice in this discussion is my use of the term pregnant person rather than woman. This is an intentional choice, rooted in the understanding that not all individuals who can become pregnant identify as women. People of diverse gender identities may experience pregnancy, and recognizing this through language is a small but significant way to be more inclusive.
Language should reflect the reality that not every person who seeks care, medical or emotional, identifies with binary gender roles. By using pregnant person, I aim to honor and recognize the varied identities of those who may experience pregnancy loss.
The Importance of Accurate and Compassionate Terminology
This blog post focuses specifically on the language we use to describe the unexpected end of an intended or desired pregnancy. While terms like early pregnancy loss, premature stillbirth, early fetal demise, or disruption of pregnancy are also alternatives, each carries its own nuances and emotional implications.
Spontaneous pregnancy loss is a common, yet rarely discussed, experience. Many who go through this feel isolated, ashamed, or that their suffering is somehow their fault. This silence can deepen the emotional toll. One small but meaningful way to ease that suffering is by using language that is more accurate and removes any sense of blame or judgment.
A Language that Evolves
As language continues to evolve, so does my understanding of how to best approach sensitive topics like pregnancy loss. I acknowledge that my language choices may not fit everyone's experiences perfectly, and that's okay. The best I can do is remain informed and intentional, updating the language I use as I grow in understanding.
In a time where access to abortion is changing and fears surrounding reproductive rights are growing, language becomes even more critical. It is a powerful tool, one that can either perpetuate stigma or pave the way for healing. By choosing language carefully, we can begin to remove shame, foster understanding, and create space for more compassionate discussions.
Ultimately, the words we use matter. They shape how we understand ourselves, how we relate to one another, and how we make sense of complex experiences like spontaneous abortion. My commitment is to continue learning and to choose words that honor the experiences of those affected while aiming to reduce the emotional burden they carry.
