I'm 36 in a few weeks, and also celebrate our 10th Wedding Anniversary next month. We are both adamant we don't want children.
I have been on the pill since I was 21, and although I'm happy on it, I want something a bit more long-term and permanent. Now I know it would be easier for my husband to have a vasectomy, he's needle-phobic. Plus, even if he did, I would want to stay on the pill as I like to control my periods (ie not having one if I'm on holiday)!

I must admit, a small part of me likes the statement of sterilisation. I feel it would almost make me emancipated. (Am I alone in this, does it sound weird). I can say to people, "I got sterilised" - and although I know this would lead to the inevitable busy-body asking the "regret" question, but it's easy to answer.
I know that shouldn't be the entire reason to get sterilised, but it's a small smug part.

I'm just asking advice, please. I'm a nurse, but it's far from my speciality.

I've heard it is a small procedure via the tummy button. Can this be done under a local anaesthetic? I don't really want a GA.
How long does it take to recover, is there a lot of pain?
My job is very physical, how long would I need off work?
How did you feel about it afterwards?
Any other thoughts, opinions and advice would be much appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

Just been looking at this> http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen ... e/792.html
I hope it doesn't sound stupid, but I thought your periods stopped! But of course, it wouldn't, because you still have a uterus.

I've heard it is a small procedure via the tummy button. Can this be done under a local anaesthetic? I don't really want a GA.

A lot of tubal ligations are laparoscopic procedures. One incision is made in your navel, your belly is inflated with carbon dioxide and a tiny camera probe is inserted. The other incision is strategic, so you don't end up with a huge gash on your belly. I had general anaesthetic - wasn't given any other option, and I didn't want to be conscious for the surgery anyway. My second incision was made below my pubic hair line and is around 2cm long. The scar has faded over time.

How long does it take to recover, is there a lot of pain?

The first day after the surgery was painful. I was hanging out for my next dose of painkillers. I took the painkillers the hospital sent me home with, then took codeine. The incision site pain wore off after around 48 hours, but laughing was painful for that first week. I had pain from trapped carbon dioxide for around four days. You just have to wait for that to go away on its own. Painkillers and massage did nothing.

My job is very physical, how long would I need off work?

I had a week off work, but I'm a desk jockey.

How did you feel about it afterwards?

I love being sterile! It's great not having to worry about taking BC ever again!

Any other thoughts, opinions and advice would be much appreciated.

If you're sure that you want a TL, go for it. Be prepared to articulate your reasons to your doctor. Give a convincing argument. Be confident. Know what you want and don't be afraid of asking for it.

Thanks, Cass xx Much appreciated.

How were your periods afterwards?

They're regular and not too heavy, which is normal for me.

Thanks again, Cass. xx Gives me something to think about.

Is Essure an option for you? I had Essure a little over two years ago. The procedure was done under local in my doctor's office, and the only real pain was the anesthetic injection into my cervix. I went back to work the next day.

Thanks, Cat! I've never heard of it before, and just had a look. It certainly is worth consideration.