Costa Rica's president says therapeutic abortions will be allowed
DECEMBER 12, 2019 / 11:03 PM / UPDATED AN HOUR AGO
2 MIN READ
SAN JOSE (Reuters) - Costa Rica’s President Carlos Alvarado on Thursday issued a technical decree that will allow for therapeutic abortions in the Central American nation, despite opposition from religious and conservative political groups.
On paper, a 50-year-old law allows a pregnancy to be terminated only if the mother’s health is at risk, but a lack of regulatory clarity at hospitals has meant the law could not be applied.
“This decision will save the lives of women and protect their health,” Alvarado said.
The measure will allow for the first therapeutic abortions to be performed within six months at public hospitals. Private clinics will also be allowed to perform the procedure.
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https://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-costa-rica-abortion/costa-ricas-president-says-therapeutic-abortions-will-be-allowed-idUKKBN1YH0EY
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