Risk factors of spontaneous abortion were investigated in two matched case-control studies in 1987-88 and 1997-99. An history of previous abortions significantly increased the risk in both studies. Lifestyle (coffee) and occupational (exposure to organic solvents) factors were associated with a significantly increased risk in the first but not in the second calendar period, following a community intervention with advice given to workers, employers, and physicians; the latter also counseled a greater use of medicines against spontaneous abortion.