RIO DE JANEIRO, March 4 (RIA Novosti) - Brazil's Catholic Church has spoken out against plans for an abortion for a nine-year-old girl who was raped by her stepfather, national media reported citing church representatives.

After the girl from the northeastern state of Pernambuco complained of stomach pains, a medical examination showed she was in the 16th week of pregnancy, and was carrying twins. Police say the girl had been routinely raped by her stepfather since the age of six.

Medics say the girl's life could be in danger if she gives birth, but Catholic priests have threatened to go to court to prevent an abortion, the reports said.

"We recognize the 'unjust' nature of this pregnancy, but we have to save lives," local Archbishop Jose Cardoso Sobrinho told journalists.

Brazilian laws ban abortions, but make an exception when there is a threat to the life or health of a mother.