Dear bubbles209,

Yes, teens are often able to get financial help for abortion services. Some health centers, clinics, or hospitals offer sliding scale fees — according to income. Some may also reduce the cost for young people. And sometimes Medicaid will cover the cost of an abortion procedure.

Although most teenagers who choose abortion have a parent involved in their decision, telling a parent is only required in states with mandatory parental involvement laws. Such laws require a woman under 18 to tell a parent or get parental permission before having an abortion.

According to most of these laws, if a girl cannot talk with her parents — or chooses not to — she can appear before a judge. The judge will consider whether she is mature enough to decide on her own. If not, the judge will decide whether an abortion is in her best interests.

To speak with someone about abortion, the laws in your state, and fees for abortion services, call the nearest Planned Parenthood center at 1-800-230-PLAN. All of our Planned Parenthood health centers are committed to providing services at the lowest possible cost and to ensuring that financial concerns are not a barrier to necessary health care.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.