Dear FrediP31,

In the United States, a woman does not need the permission of her boyfriend, husband, or sex partner to have an abortion.

Although it takes both a girl and guy for a pregnancy to happen, it is the woman's choice in deciding what to do about the pregnancy because it is her body that is affected. That's why it's very important for guys who have sex with women to understand that the woman will ultimately be the one to make the choice whether or not to continue the pregnancy for nine months and have a child. It is helpful for couples — before they have sex — to discuss how they would like to handle an unplanned pregnancy should the situation arise.

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.