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Hi, guys —
I am trying to be a good Catholic, but feel
very confused.
I have been a (Type 1) diabetic for 25 years
and am using an insulin pump. I have hypothyroidism
and a mild mitral valve prolapse. I had my
first child just before I turned 30 and will
deliver my
2nd by C-section just before my
37th birthday (due in June 2010).
I am very excited, but have the following
weighing on my mind:
I am considering a tubal ligation and am fortunate
that I have not had diabetes related complications
yet. Here is my concern.
- At 37 and having been diabetic for 25
years, can my body handle another pregnancy?
- Shouldn't I do what will make me the healthiest
for the two children I have?
I asked my diabetes doctor and OB/GYN the
same questions.
My diabetes doctor (a Catholic) stated it
is my personal choice, but from a medical
stand point,
a diabetic should never have an unplanned
pregnancy. Hormonal contraception would interfere
with blood sugar control more so than a tubal
ligation.
My OB/GYN (a former Catholic — now a
Methodist) felt that a tubal ligation, medically
speaking, was a wise choice, considering my
age and diabetes.
- Does the Catholic Church allow for tubal
ligations when medical conditions such
as diabetes are present?
If I was not diabetic, I would love to have
more children. I am also making an appointment
for counseling on this issue with my parish
priest.
Julie
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