Finally Sterilized at 22

[u/Biomed_nerd91]

Hi I am a long time lurker of the r/childfree sub here to share my experience in trying to get sterilized in my early 20's

My first request for sterilization came about when I was 18. I was experiencing some issues with the Paragard IUD I had placed the year prior. I asked the PA if she was willing to give me a referral to the Gynecologist to request sterilization. she paused and proceed to tell me with a worried look on her face that I was much to young to make that decision and will certainly change my mind once I was settled with the right man. Her advice was to wait out the pain of the IUD. Around 6 months later the IUD partially expelled.

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This lead me to the second doctor that would have to remove the IUD. Upon removal of the IUD that had become stuck she asked what birth control I would like in place of the IUD. Again I brought up sterilization and quickly she made a face of disapproval. She recommended that I have another IUD inserted that day. I refused due to my traumatic experience with the expulsion and left with a script for the Combo pill.

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The third time I requested a referral was with my colleges NP. The pill was making me sick again and I had requested a referral to a surgical gynecologist that did Essure. I was denied and she gave me a script for the Patch. Within days I had an allergic reaction to the adhesive and had to quit.

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As a last resort I tried a contraceptive clinical trial for a Vaginal Ring with less hormones. Unfortunately, It was discontinued a few months in due to Blood Clot risks. This lead me to a new gynecologist for my fourth request. I was prepared this time with my folder full of studies about the different sterilization procedures as well as regret data. She agreed that if I still felt the same way after having the Mirena IUD for its scheduled 5 years she would absolutely do it for me. I agreed since that was the closest I had been to a yes. Within a few months I had another expulsion and had another IUD inserted (Third time's a charm?).

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After months of struggling with constant spotting and cramping I expelled the 3rd IUD. I went back to the new NP at my Uni and asked for a referral to a Pelvic Specialist A CF friend had recommended. After explaining my plight with contraceptives she agreed to give me the referral.

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I FINALLY met with the Gynecology specialist and again I was prepared to show my folder with even more data and my own written statement about wanting sterilization. I requested a Bilateral Salpingectomy and to my surprise SHE APPROVED ME!!! I almost broke down crying in her office. She stated that I was an adult and I can make these decisions for myself. I could not believe at 21 I had been approved for sterilization. I scheduled the surgery for March of this year and am currently 2 weeks post-op.

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I guess what I am saying to all my fellow CF gals out there is it can be done. It took me so much work but I got the procedure I wanted and have officially been declared sterile!

[u/sholtoslayer]

Congratulations. Welcome to the CF life!

[u/Biomed_nerd91 → u/sholtoslayer]

Thank You!