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| Sat, 10-02-2004 - 4:21pm |
I have been lurking and reading on this board for some time trying to deal with bc issues in my life. I am a 44 yo mom of six and since the last one came along last year at 43 (have finally decided no more natural family planning because of peri-menopause) I am still a fertile Myrtle.
Anyway, DH *tried* to go the big V route while I was pg the last time, but literally could not stomach it. He and I both agree on no more babies at this point. We are trying to check into that newer V procedure where they put clips on...but in the mean time...we are struggling.
I talked to my doc about a TL, and even had an appointment, but ended up cancelling because of two concerns: 1) I am obese and the risk of complication is higher; and 2)the apparent moderate potential that the surgery causes hormonal effects due to reducing the blood flow to the ovaries. Since I did not follow through with this plan, and even though I have had trouble with depression the previous two times I took them...I opted for OrthoTCLo...hoping they would be low enough so as not to bother me. The first 4 months were great...but starting in the 5th month I have been feeling blah all month and then TOTALLY falling apart(so NOT me) during the 4th (off)week.
I SOOO do not want to be pregnant, but both my DH and mom are telling me to stop taking them. I think I need to listen to them because my ability to function is being impaired. DH will try to do the non cutting V...I know he will...but I am afraid of what happens in the meantime. Condoms are not out, but I tend to be irratated by them (mild latex allergy I think)...and with an irregular cycle does that mean I can never have it "au naturale."
Well, thanks for your patience with this old lady:) I probably will come talk about this stuff more, but if any of you could throw me a thought or two before I have to decide about starting another cycle of the pills on Sunday night, I'd appreciate it! Gut says I need to stop...anyone agree? All input welcome.
Sandy

If you want a permanent method, then you might want to consider Essure non-surgical sterilization.
www.essure.com
It's far less invasive than either a tubal or a vasectomy, both of which can have complications and problems. I can understand your husband being scared of a vasectomy, my husband was considering one not too long ago until he started reading some of the problems that can happen. Although very rare, some men have recurring pain that never goes away after a vasectomy.
Alternatively, you could consider getting an IUD. You probably only have a few more years before menopause anyway, and they are very effective and last 5-10 years. The Mirena IUD is 99.9% effective and just as good as a vasectomy, without the risks.
www.mirena.com
Chris
Dh says he *will* follow up with the necessasary Doc. as soon as he returns from a business trip...I just hope he can do this. I agree with you (and so does he) that it's his "turn" to take the burden on this. Since this is a safe place to tell this...saying he is not up for the "V" is an understatement. I went with him to a consultation to have the V during my last pregnancy...and he passed out due to his squimishness (yes, at the consultation while just hearing about the procedure). Please ladies have a heart...no telling your DH's...my DH is a sweetie and would do basically anything for me:)
I did pass on the pill last night, and I feel free already. It is the decision I had to make.
Thanks for caring:)
Sandy
Caitlin
I have thought about an IUD. Mostly I am troubled by the *potential* for at least the non-hormonal ones to act by disrupting implantation. I have strong feelings about that aspect so think it would bother me to wonder. I am *afraid* the hormonal ones would still bother me as the pill does. I also feel sort of turned off reading about the strings that hang out (I know...picky, picky...if that was my biggest concern it'd be wrong to not do it because of it)
I may yet look into this option if DH tries again anf "fails."
Thanks,
Sandy
Good luck Sandy, it's not easy! I know a number of men with vasectomies, and they've all had good experiences, but all the same my DF insists that he'll never get one. We'll see about that when the time comes! But don't forget to ask your doctor about Essure if your DH bails out after the next consultation....
Co-cl for Birth Control
I know that the newer IUD's have passed those tests. My doc and midwife I had in MI before I moved both were strong Christians and said they felt OK about the newer IUD's. I am just so old school at age 44...IUD's of my youth were awful...hard to shake the thoughts.
I am keeping that Essure idea in my back pocket...thanks:)
Sandy
Mom to DS,21 and 5 DD's 17,9,7,4,and 15 mos!! (just so you all know,lol!)