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Do I need my parents’ consent for an abortion?

If you are a minor, you generally need the consent of your parents or guardian. This also depends on your age.

At what age do I need my parents’ consent for an abortion?

By law, young people under the age of 18 need the consent of their parents or guardian for certain types of medical treatment:

  • If you are under 12 years old

    Your parents must give consent before you can have an abortion.

  • If you are between 12 and 16 years old

    You need your parents’ consent. But if there are special circumstances you should contact your GP or a doctor at an abortion clinic. The doctor will then decide whether you fully understand the consequences of your decision to have an abortion. Doctors have a duty of confidentiality to their patients. So they will not inform your parents about the abortion unless you agree.

  • If you are between 16 and 18 years old

    You only need your parents’ consent if the doctor decides that you are unable to make a well-considered decision on your own.

  • If you are 18 years or older

    You are not a minor and do not need your parents’ consent for an abortion.