I’ve known this day was coming for a long time. I was sterilized via the now defunct procedure, Essure back in the aughts. Due to chronic illness, I am on a continuous dose of birth control so that I can avoid the hormonal changes of menstruating- something that makes my symptoms worse. I’ve been thinking there would come a time when I would need this note for years, but never bothered. When I moved to Florida and saw my new PCP three months ago, I finally requested one.
My original request to the doctor:
As I am expecting the eventual overturning of Roe as well as Griswold, I am considering that it may hard to get birth control in the near future. As discussed in my appointment I am sterile and take birth control to help manage my POTS symptoms which are worse during my period. I would like to get a doctor's note that I can carry with me that states I am unable to get pregnant in case I ever need to prove that I am not using birth control as an abortifacient/prevent pregnancy, or to prove that I could not have had an abortion in the case that I am ever accused. Please let me know if you are able to provide this, or who I should speak with. I can also provide a recent ultrasound showing I've had the Essure procedure, if you don't already have access to it.
This was sent shortly after Florida’s new abortion ban, so I’m guessing this is the first time the office folks encountered this issue (I know a few people read the messages before it makes it to the doc). I imagine it was quite chilling.
Her response:
This is an interesting point. I will look into drafting something for you
Thank goodness I have an excellent PCP. As a chronically ill person in Florida, good doctors are hard to come by.
The letter:
My papers which document that I am unable to abort, which I will carry with me always from now on.
Letter says:
To whom it may concern,
This letter serves to certify that my patient, [redacted] takes contraception for medical conditions not related to pregnancy prevention nor abortifacient use. She previously underwent a female sterilization procedure, known as Essure implant.
Sincerely,
[redacted]
Of course this only works if they make birth control exceptions for reasons not related to pregnancy prevention, or any conscience clauses that may be enacted. So, who knows. At least it may bolster my case against any false accusations. It’s disgusting and I shouldn’t have to do this. Gilead indeed.
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