There are varying abortion laws across the UK, so it is important to find out what the laws are where you live so you can get the best treatment available to you.
England, Wales and Scotland
It is legal to have an abortion in England, Wales and Scotland up until 24 weeks of pregnancy, provided that the woman has the agreement of two doctors that it would be more harmful to her physical or mental health, or the physical and mental health of any children she already has, to continue with pregnancy.
What this usually means is a woman explaining to a doctor why she does not feel she can continue with the pregnancy and that doctor’s decision being approved by a second doctor.
It is also possible for a woman to have an abortion after 24 weeks if the foetus has severe abnormalities or continuing the pregnancy would endanger her life or cause serious physical and mental harm
Northern Ireland
Abortion in Northern Ireland is severely restricted, which means women often travel to the England for services. In Northern Ireland, abortion is only allowed under special circumstances, such as if the pregnant woman has a serious medical or psychological condition that would jeopardise her life if the pregnancy continues, or if a foetal abnormality is detected that threatens the life of the mother and would have a serious effect on her physical or mental health.
Jersey
In Jersey it is legal for a woman to have an abortion up until 12 weeks under normal conditions. However, there is a one week ‘cooling-off period’ where the woman must wait before having the procedure so they can think the decision through fully. Between 13 and 24 weeks, a woman can have an abortion if the mother’s life is in danger or there is a foetal abnormality.
If you're under 16
Once a person is 16 they are able to make decisions about and consent to medical procedures, including abortion, without the consent of a parent or guardian.
However, it is possible to have an abortion without parental consent if you are under 16 if the doctor feels that you are mature enough to understand what you are agreeing to and it is within your best interests for your parents not to know.