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Hi, guys —
We have four children and have required fertility
assistance for many years to conceive. I've
also had many surgeries to correct uterine
problems. Part of my fertility problem stems
from having (PCOS) Polycystic Ovary Syndrome which is an hormonal imbalance. I have irregular
menses.
We have tried (NFP) Natural Family Planning
to conceive but due to my irregularities and
hormonal imbalance, there were no patterns
and it doesn't work well with me. I've had
two miscarriages.
My pregnancies are very high risk. When pregnant
I have to abstain from relations for the entire
pregnancy. I have used hormonal suppositories
and take baby aspirin for the first three
months to help keep from miscarrying. At 12
weeks, I had surgery done: a cerclage (closure) placed
to try to keep me from dilating, then it's
bed rest, then I usually go into labor: the
first time 18 weeks,
this last time 22 weeks. I have to get steroids
for the babies lungs to advance them. I've
delivered pre term babies at 32 weeks and
35 weeks after being hospitalized on and off
through pregnancy. I have had pre-eclampsia,
high blood pressure, diabetes, bleeding and
placenta problems with my pregnancies. Not
to mention while on bed rest, it effects my
whole family because they have to care for
my children; I can't. I've had a C-section
and (VBAC's) vaginal births after C-section.
My last two pregnancies I've conceived without
fertility assistance. Now that I'm somewhat
fertile, I'm really scared. My doctor suggests
no more pregnancies due to major complications
to
life-threatening issues for myself and babies.
Fertility monitors don't work due to my hormonal
problems.
- In our situation can I or my husband get
a tubal ligation or vasectomy?
We've always been open to life and would love
to have had more children, but for us there
are too many risks. I cannot take any chances
on conceiving.
- Will our Church understand in these rare
circumstances and allow us to do this?
Marie
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