There is no scientific reason for time limits on abortion – so why are they used to deny vulnerable people healthcare? Under Mexican legislation, the teenager was allowed an abortion, which has been legal in cases of sexual or domestic violence since 2009. But her case illustrates how legal and medical professionals in Latin America often overlook complex factors when considering an abortion, with stigma superseding the interests of the pregnant person. Similarly, a ministerial decree – not a law – in Cuba allows abortion without restrictions up to week 12 and at medical discretion thereafter. “There is an idea that after week 12, abortion is very risky, regardless of whether you do it with trained staff.