Young women should be made aware of the confidentiality
policies and practices of maternity services. Health
professionals have a duty to act in the best interests of their
patients. There are certain situations when confidentiality should
not be kept when dealing with this population. If health professionals
believe that there is a risk to the safety or welfare of a
young person or others, they should act in accordance with local
safeguarding guidelines. For patients who are under 16, assessment
of Frazer competence must be undertaken and ideally the
patient should be seen with someone who has parental
responsibility.