Like all the pregnancy options, abortion is a very personal choice. Here’s our list of things to take into consideration.

It’s a person’s legal right to choose whether or not she gives birth, though in some states you need a parent’s or judge’s permission to have an abortion if you are not 18.
Think about your moral, cultural and religious beliefs. What do you believe about abortion? How did you come to believe this? What have you been taught in your family or faith community about abortion? How do these messages fit with your own personal beliefs? No one should ever be pressured into having an abortion if she doesn’t feel it’s right for her, nor should she be shamed or pressured into choosing not to have an abortion if that’s what she decides to do.

Abortion is a safe, legal medical procedure, when done early in a pregnancy. There are organizations such as the National Network for Abortion Funds that can help a girl or woman pay for an abortion if she can’t afford it. There are also Web sites devoted to helping girls and women think through the abortion decision, such as PregnancyOptions.info, as well as hotlines, like Exhale, where you can call before and after the procedure to talk about it. You can also check out Backline or call them at 1-888-493-0092.

Whatever you choose, be sure you do it because it’s the best choice for you. The sooner you get information about your options and start to consider them, the more options may be available to you because abortions become more complicated later in pregnancy. Find a trusted adult as soon as possible. This person can help you understand your options and help assure that you stay safe and healthy and make a decision—regardless of what that decisions is—that feels right for you.

Get more information on abortion, and be sure to check out more FAQs and teen-written stories.