Illinois isn't ready for parental notification

Illinois isn't ready for parental notification
Carlos T Mock, MD, F. A. C. O. G.
July 19, 2009


I am a Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. I practiced the profession in the Western Suburbs until my retirement. I am a 100% pro choice Obstetrician, I’ve even performed Third Trimester terminations (in cases of severe deformed babies), yet I am disturbed that the pro choice movement does not wish to involve an adult in the abortions of minors.

If I were to cut a mole from a young lady’s skin, I would need the signature of an adult that can understand the risks, complications and consequences of that procedure to the young woman. How am I to assume that a 12 year old girl understands what’s involved in the surgical procedure of an abortion?

I don’t think I need to talk to BOTH of her parents, I don’t even think I need to speak to ONE parent, but in due conscience and following my Hippocratic oath, I want to have an responsible adult—any adult—involved in this decision. I expect this adult to counsel, guide, and help my young patient deal with the recovery from procedure that will be done to her young body.

I am not allowed to take her appendix without the signature of an adult—which is a minor surgery—why should it be any different with an abortion?

I think it’s long overdue that both pro-choice and pro life forces come together and start searching common ground to resolve this difficult epidemic in America.

Kids will have sex, let’s teach them how to do it safely and responsibly. The pro life forces are completely ignoring the fact that the largest portion of the HIV epidemic is occurring in the younger than twenty-five population. The pro-choice forces are ignoring that a 12 year old girl is not capable to consent to a surgical procedure.

Lets come together, as President Obama has repeatedly said, and work towards a common ground: eliminate unwanted pregnancies and stop the HIV epidemic in our kids.


Dr. Mock has published four books with Floricanto Press, Berklety, CA. His articles have appeared on publications like The Chicago Tribune and several gay and lesbian newspapers. He was inducted in The Chicago GLBT Hall of Fame in 2007. He can be reached at: www.carlostmock.com