My [40'sF] Son's [17M] Girlfriend [17F] wants me to take her to get an abortion without her parents knowledge.

Adoption is always an option. I know reddit tends to be very pro-choice and legally Mary probably is old enough to get an abortion without parental consent. Likely you just would be the driver. If Mary's parents do find out later on, shit will hit the fan and they will hate you a long time.

You legally have the right to help Mary out but her parents also have the right to be outraged that their (and your) grandchild was aborted. Both you and her parents seems stable enough to provide the financial resources to raise the child (it may be tough). A big thing is the shame factor involved. The shame of getting pregnant and later the shame of Mary having to hide this from her parents.

I think it is important to hear both sides of this issue. Many post-abortive men and women suffer for decades with guilt (a form of PTSD). Abortion is not a clean "Get out of jail free card". It is not easy. It may likely damage James' and Mary's relationship. It is a major catalyst for depression. Many people grow to regret getting an abortion when they had the finances (though tight) to raise the child or have the girl offer the child for adoption.

I want to be a contrary voice just so you guys can make that truly informed decision. There are consequences no matter what choice is made. When a choice is made you are embracing the natural consequences that come with that choice even if you are unaware of those consequences. An abortion is not a solution that is without consequences. The consequences are for abortion are severe and once done cannot be undone. I don't want James and Mary to live in regret that does not go away. It can be devastating.

Being pro-choice means considering what options are best in the circumstance. It is Mary's legal choice to do what she wishes but I think that it would be very helpful if you could talk with her about the different options out there and the consequences for each. Allow her to make an informed decision rather than one made out of fear. It is those decisions we make out of fear that we grow to regret the most. Look up the possibilities of adoption and also research post-abortion syndrome. Regardless of the choice made, make sure that you are always there for Mary as long as she is in James' life. If she does get the abortion, she is going to be needing a lot of loving afterward. She is not going to get that from her parents because they will have no clue about the abortion. Be there for her as best as you can.

/r/relationships Thread