If you’re under 18 and considering abortion in Georgia, you may be wondering whether you can move forward without your parents’ consent or even without them knowing. Understanding Georgia’s laws can help you know what to expect and what steps may be required.
At First Choice Women’s Center, we provide a safe, confidential space where you can ask questions, explore your options, and receive medically accurate information without pressure or judgment. You deserve support as you think through your next step.
Schedule a free appointment today.
What Does Georgia Law Require for Minors?
In Georgia, an unemancipated minor under 18 must have a parent or legal guardian notified before an abortion can be performed. An unemancipated minor is someone under 18 who is not married and remains under the care, custody, or control of a parent, guardian, or the juvenile court.
Here’s how it works under O.C.G.A. § 15-11-682:
- A parent or guardian must receive at least 24 hours’ notice before the abortion.
- Notice may be given in person or by telephone.
- A physician may also provide notice by certified or registered mail, which is considered delivered 48 hours after mailing unless confirmed earlier.
- If notice has not already been provided, the minor must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who presents proper identification and confirms they are the lawful parent or guardian.
Georgia’s 24-Hour Informed Consent Law
Georgia also has a law called the Women’s Right to Know Act (O.C.G.A. § 31-9A-3).
At least 24 hours before an abortion, a physician or qualified agent must provide certain information in person or by phone, including:
- The medical risks associated with the abortion procedure
- The probable gestational age of the pregnancy
- Whether a detectable human heartbeat is present
- Medical risks of carrying the pregnancy to term
- Information about available medical assistance benefits
- The father’s legal obligation to support the child
- List agencies that offer alternatives to abortion, a description of fetal development, and a statement about fetal pain
The minor must also sign a statement confirming that the information was provided and that she is consenting freely and without coercion.
Georgia’s LIFE Act
Georgia’s Living Infants Fairness and Equality (LIFE) Act limits abortion once a fetal heartbeat can be detected, which is usually around six weeks of pregnancy. Because many women may not even realize they’re pregnant that early, this law can significantly affect what options are available.
After a heartbeat is detected, abortion is only allowed in certain situations, such as a medical emergency, a pregnancy that is considered medically futile, or in cases of rape or incest when a police report has been filed.
If you’re unsure how far along you are, an ultrasound can help clarify what the law may mean for your specific situation.
Protecting Your Health and Understanding Your Next Step
Before making any decision, it’s important to have clear medical information. Start with a medical-grade pregnancy test to verify the presence of the pregnancy hormone, hCG. Receiving an ultrasound can tell you how far along you are and whether the pregnancy is located in the uterus. It’s also important to review your medical history and understand the potential risks and side effects associated with abortion procedures.
Having accurate information about your health and Georgia’s laws can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Questions about parental involvement and your legal options can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to sort through everything on your own. At First Choice Women’s Center, we provide free medical-grade pregnancy testing, limited obstetrical ultrasounds, and confidential options consultations.
Contact us to book a free appointment today. We’re here to listen and walk with you through your next step.
First Choice Women’s Center does not perform or refer for abortions.
All abortion information is accurate at the time of writing.