If you are pregnant and the pregnancy is unplanned, one of the options you may consider is to have the pregnancy terminated - to have an abortion. Before you make any decisions you should talk it through with a trained professional - to make sure you have made the right decision. You can talk to the doctor at a Family Planning Clinic or to your own GP, either can refer you to the Termination service at your local hospital where there are specially trained counsellors. Although abortions are safe and commonly performed procedures - after an early abortion most women can go back to work or college next day - it can take time to adjust emotionally afterwards. You can also contact the Sure Start Plus or Teenage Pregnancy Advisers for advice and support.

There are a number of websites where you can get more detailed information on abortion - (see below) but here are some of the basic facts.

What is an abortion?
An abortion is a medical (usually with drugs) or surgical (involves an operation) procedure that is carried out on a pregnant woman that ends the pregnancy

What is the law on abortion?
It is legal to have an abortion provided two doctors agree that the woman has grounds under the Abortion Act - for example it is necessary for her physical or mental health. The abortion must be performed in either an NHS hospital or an approved independent sector place. NHS abortions are free, but the independent sector will charge a fee.

Do I need my parent's consent?
If the doctor thinks you are mature enough to understand what it involves, and that it is in your best medical interest you do not need your parent's consent.

Three useful sites:
www.ruthinking.co.uk
Gives basic information about what an abortion is, the legal situation, what happens after an abortion. They advise going to GP or Family Planning Clinic and give the number for a Helpline (0800 28 29 30) if you're under 18 and want to talk about it with someone you don't know.

If you want an abortion but don't want to go to a local NHS service, there are two organisations from the independent sector who can help - but they will charge a fee - details of the costs and more detail about abortions are available on their websites:

British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS)
www.bpas.org.uk

Marie Stopes International
www.mariestopes.org.uk