Dear les_16,

The abortion pill is the use of two medicines taken at different times to end pregnancy. The abortion pill can be used up to 63 days after the last period begins. If you are under 18, your state may require one or both of your parents to give permission for you to have an abortion or be told of your decision to have an abortion before the procedure.

It helps if you and your parents talk openly, honestly, and often about sensitive issues, including sex, unintended pregnancy, and a woman's options for dealing with it — raising a child, placing a child for adoption, or having an abortion. We understand, however, that talking with parents isn't always possible. The Supreme Court has ruled that there must be another option to parental notification or consent for a minor. It is called "judicial bypass." In judicial bypass, a judge can either rule that the young woman is mature enough to make this decision without a parent's consent, or that she is not mature enough to make this decision without informing them.

To find out more about the laws in your state, check out Parental Consent and Notification Laws, or call 1-800-230-PLAN to find a Planned Parenthood health center near you.

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.