Miscarriage

In Medical Jurisprudence. The expulsion of the ovum or embryo from the uterus within the first six weeks after conception. Between that time, and before the expiration of the sixth month, when the child may possibly live, it is termed "abortion." When the delivery takes place soon after the sixth month, it is denominated "premature labor." But the criminal act of destroying the foetus at any time before birth is termed, in law, "procuring miscarriage."

Chit. Med. Jur. 410; 2 Dungl. Hum. Phys. 364.

See "Abortion." In Practice. A term used in the statute of frai^ds to denote that species of wrongful act for the consequences of which the wrongdoer would be responsible at law in a civil action.

2 Bam. & Aid. 613; 2 Day (Conn.) 457; 63 N. C. 198; Browne, St. Frauds, § 155.