If a miscarried fetus did not complete the fourth month

Q: A young woman from Yemen, said: "I accompanied my sister-in-law to the hospital. She was pregnant in its fourth month and was bleeding for two days. When we were admitted into the hospital, the specialist decided she should be hospitalized because she was very tired. She asked me to accompany her to the bathroom. As soon as she entered, the miscarried fetus fell directly into the drain of the toilet. She fainted immediately after that. I was terribly surprised and confused, and got scared not knowing what I should do, I hurried to the water hose and switched it on until it pushed the fetus into the drain. I took her back to her bed in the ward. I swear that I did not know whether it was alive or dead but to my best judgment it was dead. I have told my father and brother the whole story but they did not blame me, though I feel great remorse towards what I have done. What should I do to expiate for this unintentional incident because I am worried and confused? Guide me. May Allah reward you with the best!

A: If the aborted fetus did not complete the fourth month, there would be no (Part No. 7; Page No. 242) legitimate rulings concerning it. However, it would have been better if this fetus was taken and wrapped in a piece of cloth. Since nothing has taken place, there would not be any sin on abandoning it.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.