For Those Under 16 Years

Women over 16 years do not need their parents' consent to have an abortion. If you are under 16, you normally need your parents' consent. However, the law does say that a girl under 16 can give consent to her own treatment if her doctor considers her to be mature enough to make the decision. But very few doctors are prepared to give medical treatment under these circumstances. The best thing to do in this situation is to contact one of the organisations listed in the Resources section of this leaflet. They will be sympathetic and help as best they can.