Pregnancy, Teenagers and the Law, 1974

In the last few years most states have reduced the age of majority from 21 to 18. In 1974, the right of an unmarried 18-year-old girl to consent for all areas of her own medical care, including birth control, has been recognized by 45 states and the District of Columbia. In 48 states and the District, 18-year-old unmarried girls may consent for most pregnancy-related health services and for abortion. No state forbids venereal disease treatment to unmarried 18-year-olds on their own consent. Teen-agers under 18 are still subject to the restriction of parental consent in many health-related areas, but the trend seems to be toward liberalization even in this area under the "mature minor doctrine." No doctor has been held liable for providing any health service to a minor over 15.