#talkface

Just had my phone consult about sterilisation, and the doctor I spoke with was very professional, supportive and encouraging. She referred me via public to gyno, and said that if the timeframe they give me is too long, to call her back & she can refer me privately.

She asked me the standard health questions, and essentially forewarned me that I would be counciled to make sure its the right option for me, etc especially because of my age and lack of kids. But she didn't bingo me herself, and she tried to reassure me that I'm not crazy for wanting this (not that I need it) and sympathised with me about how people normally react to this decision.

I'm a little nervous, but to be honest, having the first consult over the phone is less nerve wracking because it means they can't see my face if I get frustrated & emotional.

My theory is that I use this first consult to say 'I have made this decision, what is the process and what are the hoops?' and all going well I can just keep it moving.

I am hoping that it goes smoothly and they are willing to refer me to have the procedure done through the private system - I know if I try go public it will be paid for but I will effectively be permanently at the bottom of the waiting list. Even better is if they can give me an idea of the cost. Unfortunately while we have insurance, it won't cover this. I can afford it, but the cost will dictate whether we have to make any cuts to wedding costs.

It is hard to find details online about female sterilisation in NZ, and most of what I have found is from several years ago. I have only seen one document suggesting that salpingectomy is an option at a specialist hospital in the South Island, so I am hoping that that is the standard procedure now and I can get it done closer to home, and that the info online is just outdated as it appears to be.

gotta be toll