“Too much too soon, let me out of here!” Psychiatric and obstetric implications of a child’s pregnancy

Abstract

Objective: Psychiatrists may become involved in circumstances where a child is seeking termination of pregnancy. Potential roles include capacity advice and advocacy, but ethical and legal uncertainties abound. This paper uses illustrative cases, in an Australian jurisdiction, to exemplify the issues. Conclusion: Termination of pregnancy at the youthful extreme raises unique challenges for all involved.