There are complex issues surrounding young women and abortion but New Zealand's Care of Children Act 2004 seeks to protect the most vulnerable who might be put at risk should it be mandatory for them to seek approval from a parent or guardian.
It's worth remembering that most teenagers are encouraged
to, and do tell their parents. A look at 25 girls aged 11-14 who had abortions at Wellington Hospital in 2003 showed that 18 told a parent and all but one of the rest involved an adult - including an aunt, a teacher or a school counsellor.
The one who did not involve an adult cited family violence as the reason.
There are myriad issues that need to be considered, among them fear (real or apparent) of: violence from a parent, being evicted from home/disowned, coercion into early parenthood.
The current parental involvement law is important in protecting vulnerable teens from coercion and abuse, and in providing safe medical care.
Marlene Ware, Tauranga
This week's letter will receive a complimentary Lotto ticket from Tauranga City Lotto shop, 44 Grey St.
