Each state has different laws. In Pennsylvania (as in many other states), anyone under the age of 18 must have the permission of one parent to get an abortion. If you feel you can’t ask either of your parents or if neither of your parents will give you their permission, you have the option of going before a judge to obtain an abortion. This is called a judicial bypass.
Regardless of the laws, it would be helpful if you had someone older to talk to. If you could approach one of your parents about your pregnancy, that would be ideal. If not, try to find an adult that you trust – an older sibling, an aunt, a teacher, anyone who might be able to give you some help and support during this difficult time. If you truly feel that you have no one that you can confide in, contact the closest Family Planning or Planned Parenthood office. Make an appointment for a pregnancy test and options counseling. They should be able to help you sort through the laws in your state and will give you information about all of your options, including referrals to other agencies/facilities who can help you. You can also call the CHOICE hotline (1-800-848-3367) for referrals to facilities that provide options counseling.
If you live in another state, there may be different laws. You can find out about the laws in your state by visiting the following website/reading the following document (second page):
http://www.guttmacher.org/statecenter/spibs/spib_PIMA.pdf
For information about the judicial bypass (obtaining an abortion without a parent’s consent via the court system) in Pennsylvania, contact the Women’s Law Project at 1-215-928-9801. For more information about PA abortion laws, visit:
http://www.womenslawproject.org/brochures/wlp_teen_piece.pdf
24. April 2012
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