A Look at Parental Consent and Notification Laws for Abortion

Parental consent and notification laws for abortion vary from state to state. In some states, the law requires that all girls under the age of 18 obtain permission from at least one parent to obtain an abortion. In other states, girls can visit a women’s clinic for an abortion without the need for permission if they are the victims of abuse or neglect. Girls might also bypass the permission requirement by seeking consent from a judge.

For example, Virginia law requires that at least one parent give permission for an abortion; however, a judge may waive this requirement. In Maryland, one parent must be told of the decision to have an abortion, yet permission is not needed. A judge may also waive the notification requirement. In Washington, D.C., girls may obtain an abortion legally, without the need for any sort of parental involvement. When a patient visits a women’s clinic, she can rest assured that the gynecologist will protect her confidentiality and uphold the law.

The gynecologists of Washington Surgi-Clinic in Washington, D.C. are firmly committed to upholding the highest standards of patient confidentiality. Girls and women throughout the area are welcome to contact our women’s clinic at (202) 683-7336 to schedule a visit.