An 18-year-old from rural Limpopo, South Africa, was denied a legal abortion at a public clinic after healthcare workers refused care on religious grounds, forcing her to seek an illegal procedure from a traditional healer.The teen, identified as Liza*, confirmed her pregnancy through two tests and traveled 29 km to Rethabile Community Health Centre in Polokwane.Instead of receiving care, she was met with judgmental responses from nurses who cited their religious beliefs against abortion.Feeling abandoned, Liza approached a traditional healer in Ntsima village for an unregulated procedure.The concoction caused severe complications, including heavy bleeding and abdominal pain, leaving her uncertain about the pregnancy's outcome.This case highlights systemic barriers to safe abortion access, with conscientious objection and staff shortages exacerbating delays.

A recent report by Section27 legal centre found that religious objections and insufficient providers contribute to unsafe practices, particularly impacting poor, rural women.

The National Department of Health emphasizes that healthcare workers must refer patients to alternative care despite personal beliefs, yet Limpopo's health department did not directly address the allegations.The incident underscores ongoing challenges in realizing South Africa's legal right to safe abortion.