Considering Sterilisation

[MagicStars95]

Hi everyone,

Hope you've all enjoyed the spring bank holiday. It's my first time sharing anything on mumsnet, but this might be a bit of a heavy post.

I'm considering sterilisation and might make an appointment at the doctor's tomorrow. It's been something I've considered for a very long time. A bit about my situation:

I already have two children. I'm also a student nurse and working part time. I was a single parent for a while and am now in a relationship. I've got my own home and am pretty settled in life.

I've tried different methods of birth control. Hormonal contraceptives messed with my body. I've been using the copper IUD for two years, but it makes my monthly cycle uncomfortable and painful.

The thing is, I can't see myself having any more children in the future. I'm not sure where they'd fit into my life or if I'd cope with any more responsibility. I just want to continue with my career and focus on the children I already have.

I'm not sure who else to talk to. Friends and loved ones are a bit too close to the situation, and might have an emotional reaction.

I asked my doctor for the operation a few years ago, and he said no. Now I'm almost 30. Do you think it would be worth asking again? Going to a new doctor? Going private or through a clinic etc? Has anyone successfully convinced their doctor or had any experience? I'm kind of desperate at this point.

Thanks for reading

There is a procedure called Essure which, as I understand it is a reasonably straightforward procedure that can be carried out by a nurse. But it is non-reversible which is why it is not often offered to young women.

I think at your age they won’t take you seriously, given the risk to them if you change your mind in the future and complain.

Sorry to be a Debbie downer but it will be good to be prepared for that eventuality.

@MagicStars95

You'd be surprised at the amount of people that get sterilised at your age op

I had the op at 30

Not long after my baby

I already had two dc and knew I was definitely done with anymore

Spoke to my gp who was happy to refer me as I was very direct and firm that I knew I wanted it done

I also tried many types of contraception and no longer wanted to take hormones.

Made complete sense to me and my gp.
It also saves our nhs an awful lot in terms of maternity care etc so they're normally happy to refer.

I've never ever regretted my decision and I too concentrated on the dc I have and my career.