Do Minors Need Parental Consent for Hemorrhoid Surgery?

Doctor, do I need to sign a surgical consent form for hemorrhoid surgery?

Hello, doctor.
I know my question might seem a bit naive, but I hope you can help me.
😅😅 I think I have developed a hemorrhoid, and sometimes it hurts a lot.
I also find it quite unsightly, so I want to have surgery to remove it.
However, since I am 17 years old and not yet an adult, I am unsure if I need to sign a "surgical consent form" or something similar for the surgery.
I feel a bit embarrassed to let my family know, so I would prefer to handle this on my own.
Previously, I had a minor procedure to remove a mole, and the dermatologist mentioned that minors need parental consent to sign.
It seemed like a surgical consent form, which also mentioned anesthesia.
So, I want to know if hemorrhoid surgery requires something similar.
If it does, I might consider waiting until I am an adult to handle it myself.
😅😅 Also, I heard that the age for needing parental consent changed from under 20 to 18 in 2023.
Does that mean I can sign for myself once I turn 18 without needing family consent? I know this question might sound silly, and I apologize, doctor.

Niming Fawen, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/01/23

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Surgical procedures for minors require a guardian's consent form.
You can also wait until next year to have the surgery; once you turn 18, you will be able to sign the consent forms for surgery and anesthesia on your own.

Reply Date: 2023/01/23

More Info

When it comes to medical procedures for minors, including hemorrhoid surgery, parental consent is generally required. In the United States, the legal age of majority is typically 18 years old, meaning that individuals under this age are considered minors and are not legally able to make certain medical decisions on their own. This includes the need for parental or guardian consent for surgical procedures, which often involves signing a consent form that outlines the risks, benefits, and alternatives to the surgery.

In your case, since you are 17 years old, it is likely that you would need your parents or guardians to provide consent for the hemorrhoid surgery. This is similar to your previous experience with the skin procedure where you needed parental consent. The requirement for parental consent is in place to ensure that minors have the support and guidance of their guardians when making decisions about significant medical interventions.

However, laws can vary by state, and there may be exceptions in certain circumstances. For example, some states allow minors to consent to specific medical treatments without parental involvement, particularly if the treatment is related to reproductive health or mental health. Unfortunately, hemorrhoid surgery does not typically fall into these categories.

Regarding your concern about the recent changes in the legal age of adulthood, while some states have indeed adjusted their laws, the general consensus remains that individuals must be 18 to provide consent for surgical procedures. Therefore, even if the age of majority has changed in some contexts, it is unlikely that it would affect the requirement for parental consent for a surgery like hemorrhoid removal.

If you are uncomfortable discussing this with your parents, consider seeking advice from a trusted adult, such as a school counselor or a healthcare professional. They can provide guidance on how to approach the conversation with your family or help you find resources for confidential medical care.

In the meantime, it is important to address the discomfort and pain you are experiencing due to the hemorrhoid. While surgery is one option, there are also non-surgical treatments available, such as dietary changes, over-the-counter medications, and lifestyle modifications that can help alleviate symptoms. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help you explore these options and determine the best course of action for your situation.

In summary, as a minor, you will likely need parental consent for hemorrhoid surgery. It is advisable to have an open conversation with your parents about your condition and the potential need for surgery. If you feel uncomfortable doing so, seek support from a trusted adult who can help you navigate this process. Your health and well-being are important, and there are options available to address your concerns.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Medical Consent for Surgery in Severe Hemorrhoids Cases

Hello Dr. Chen: Since I live alone and haven't been in touch with my family for a long time, I would like to know if, in the event of a severe hemorrhoid with bleeding requiring emergency surgery and hospitalization, it is permissible for a friend to sign the medical consent...

Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery
Hello, if it really comes to a point where emergency surgery is necessary, a friend can sign on your behalf. However, if that's the case, why not go ahead and have the surgery now so that you can sign for yourself?

Can an 18-Year-Old Consent to Surgery Without Parental Approval?

I would like to ask: I am 18 years old and want to undergo surgery at National Taiwan University Hospital. Can I decide to have the surgery without my parents' consent? During the surgery, can I refuse the observation of resident doctors and nurses? Or can I indicate on the ...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
For minor patients undergoing surgery, parental consent is required. At National Taiwan University Hospital, there are not as many resident doctors as you might think. If you prefer not to have observers during the procedure, you can discuss this with the attending physician who ...

Can Minors Visit Urology Clinics Without Parental Consent?

Can a person under the age of eighteen visit a urology clinic for a consultation on their own?

Dr. Sun Hongshun reply Urology
Hello Karry! You can come to the urology department for consultation and inquiries! No problem, don't worry!

Understanding Circumcision: Age Requirements and Parental Consent

Hello, I would like to ask if there is a cost for circumcision and whether one must be at least 20 years old to undergo the procedure? If under 20, is it necessary to go with a parent? However, I don't want my parents to know. What options do doctors have in this situation?

Dr. Lai Ronghao reply Urology
Hello: If personal hygiene is not an issue and it does not affect sexual activity, circumcision may not be necessary. As for the surgical cost, it is not covered by health insurance and will need to be paid out-of-pocket, approximately 6,000 NTD, with the actual fee depending on ...