Abortion is legal in Colorado. All are welcome here. Appointments are available within a week. 

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Abortion when Under Age 18

If you’re under 18 and thinking about getting an abortion, you’re in the right place.
You deserve care that is safe, private, and respectful — and you are not alone.

In Colorado, people under 18 can get an abortion. There are a few legal steps involved, and we’ll help you figure out which option fits your situation and walk you through every part of the process.

Call us anytime at 303-442-5160 to ask questions or schedule an appointment. You don’t have to have everything figured out before you call. We can help!

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(303) 442-5160

Your Options

You have three possible paths. We’ll help you decide which one works best for you.

1. Parental Notification

Parental notification means letting at least one parent or legal guardian know that you’re getting an abortion. It does not mean they have to approve or agree, and it does not give them access to your medical records.

You can complete parental notification in one of these ways:

  • Bring a parent or guardian with you to your appointment, or
  • Bring a signed parental notification form from them, or
  • Have our clinic send a certified letter to them and wait the required 48 hours before your appointment.

Your care remains confidential, and you stay in control of your decisions.

2. Judicial (Legal) Bypass

If telling a parent feels unsafe, impossible, or just not right for you, you may qualify for a judicial bypass. This is a legal process where a judge gives permission instead of a parent.

Good news:

  • It’s free
  • You’ll work with a trained attorney who supports you
  • It’s private
  • It usually happens quickly — often within 1–3 days, sometimes sooner

We help coordinate everything and support you every step of the way. You won’t have to go through this alone.

3. You May Be Able to Consent on Your Own

Some people under 18 do not need parental notification or a judicial bypass. You may be able to consent on your own if you are:

  • 15 or older, and
  • Living apart from your parents and financially supporting yourself, or
  • Legally married, or
  • Legally emancipated

Not sure if this applies to you? That’s okay — just call us and we’ll help you figure it out.

What You Can Expect From Us

  • Your Privacy Matters

Your medical information is confidential. We do not share information with parents, schools, or other states without your permission.

  • Respectful, Nonjudgmental Care

Our staff understands the unique needs of young people. You’ll be treated with kindness, dignity, and respect — always.

  • Help With Logistics

We can help with:

  • Scheduling
  • Transportation
  • Financial assistance
  • Emotional support
  • What to expect before, during, and after your visit

Just ask — support is part of your care.

group of people holding hands

Helpful Resources for People Under 18

Repro Legal Helpline: Free, confidential legal help with parental notification and judicial bypass questions. 1(844) 868-2812

All-Options Talkline – All-Options: Nonjudgmental support to talk through feelings and decisions. (888) 493-0092

Love is Respect:📱 Text “LOVEIS” to 22522 or call (866) 331-9474. Support for healthy relationships and unsafe situations.

Cobalt Abortion Fund: May help cover abortion costs and sometimes related travel needs.

National Abortion Federation: Financial assistance and referrals for care. 800-772-9100

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Colorado law requires notification, not permission. They cannot stop you from having an abortion.

Yes — if you use a judicial bypass or qualify to consent on your own.

Most cases move quickly, often within 1–3 days. We help with scheduling and paperwork.

Sometimes insurance sends billing notices home. If privacy is important, ask us about self-pay or financial assistance options.

Yes. You can bring a trusted adult, partner, or friend for support, as long as you’ve completed one of the required steps.

Yes. Many people feel this way. We’re here to answer your questions and support you without judgment.

Pregnancy Calculator

Pregnancy Calculator

Enter the first day of your last period to see your options

The gestational age of your pregnancy will be determined by the ultrasound done on the day of your visit. Note: Seeing a trained medical professional is the only way to accurately determine the length of your pregnancy and what options are available.

We’re Here for You

No matter your situation or how you’re feeling, you don’t have to go through this alone.
We’ll walk with you every step of the way — with care, confidentiality, and respect.
Call 303-442-5160 to talk with us or schedule an appointment.

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(303) 442-5160
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50 Years of Care. A Future of Access for All.

For more than 50 years, Boulder Valley Health Center has stood as a place of care, compassion, and hope. Every day, people from across our community come through our doors seeking the healthcare they need — sometimes in moments of crisis, sometimes for routine care that keeps them safe and healthy. 

The needs have never been greater. Political uncertainty, rising costs, and systemic barriers continue to leave too many behind.

Donate today to support access for all, always!

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