Dear dancer_17,

Many women who decide to have an abortion ask their partners to go with them for support. But you don't have to tell your boyfriend, parents, or anyone else that you are going to have an abortion. You need to know that if there are complications during the procedure, parents or another emergency contact may be notified. Clinics that provide abortion also respect a woman's right to privacy and confidentiality.

More than half of the teenagers who choose abortion talk about it with at least one parent. But telling a parent is only required in states with mandatory parental involvement laws. Such laws force a woman under 18 to tell a parent or get permission before having an abortion. In most of these states, if she 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.

If you are a minor considering abortion, find out about the laws in your state by clicking here. Your local Planned Parenthood health center can help.

Most women look to their husbands, partners, families, health care providers, clergy or someone else they trust for support when deciding to have an abortion. You may want to speak with a specially trained counselor at women's health clinics to help you decide if you will need support from your partner or parents. For a confidential appointment, call 1-800-230-PLAN to be connected to your nearest Planned Parenthood health center.

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.