The state of California since 1969 protects the right of abortion to all women, being one of the first states to make the ability to have an abortion a constitutional right.
As a teenager, this constitutional right from the state also includes you—you may also wonder what it would mean having an abortion under the age of eighteen. TeenSource wants to guide you through the process and ease your nerves if you decide that having an abortion is the best path for you.
What is an abortion?
An abortion is a medical procedure that ends a pregnancy. It is a safe and effective procedure that is carried out in either two options: an in-clinic abortion or a medical abortion.
- In-clinic abortion: Here, a medical professional examines a pregnancy through an ultrasound and then uses “vacuum aspiration” to gently expel the pregnancy tissue. The procedure is fairly quick and simple, with pre- and post- procedure aftercare with support from staff ensuring your safety.
- Medical Abortion: This type of abortion is more commonly known as the “Abortion Pill.” You can get this medication through an in-person medical appointment or through an online telehealth provider. Taking the pill will allow you to end your pregnancy in 4-12 hours.
Using the site abortionfinder.org allows you to find the best provider for you, regardless of what type of abortion you decide is best for you. Not only will you be able to find a provider for your abortion, but also find organizations that can help pay for your abortion or support such as housing, food, childcare, and transportation.
Abortion Rights as a Teenager
Abortion as a teenager is fully legal. You are able to have an abortion until the time the pregnancy is viable. This could mean around the range of 24-26 weeks of pregnancy.
Even though you are able to have an abortion legally, you may also worry about what your parental figure may feel about having an abortion. If you decide to have an abortion, it is important to have support from someone you trust whether it be a parent, teacher, or friend to help you mentally and emotionally
However, in the end, you have the ability to make a decision about your health care. Not only is your ability to have an abortion protected, but also your privacy. Any experience or feelings you may have navigating this process are completely valid.
Remember to ask your healthcare provider who can or cannot get your medical information. Specifically in sexual and reproductive healthcare, your doctor cannot share information to your parents without your written consent, unless it can cause harm rather than safety. Alongside abortion, you can receive contraception, prenatal care, and treatment for HIV/AIDS, without parental consent or notification.
If you have an appointment during school, talk to your school nurse/health office to leave school without alerting your parents regarding your appointment. Your counselor will also be able to help you in these scenarios.
More Information
https://prochoice.org/patients/find-a-provider/ will also find you an abortion provider that will ensure you a safe and guaranteed pathway for you.
No one can force you to have an abortion or make any decision regarding your positive pregnancy.
If you decide the best option is to continue the pregnancy, there are financial and social programs intact to help support you.
If an abortion is not the path you want to take, but do not feel fully prepared to be a parent you can learn more about safe surrender laws.