Is it permissible to have a hysterectomy for this reason?

[jenniferlj77]

I am currently pregnant and was told by my doctor that it is unsafe for me to get pregnant again. I have several medical issues that increase my risks of complications and death. I am well aware that having a hysterectomy for the sole purpose of not getting pregnant is not permissible. I also realize that NFP is a 99.9% accurate method of not conceivng. However, I know that I am not 99.9% reliable and am imperfect. Would it be permissible for me to have a hysterectomy at the time of my C-section? My purpose is not to prevent pregnancy, but to prevent the problems that I could face if I got pregnant again.

 

[Michelle_Arnold]

I think you have answered your own question but have either not realized it or cannot accept it. You say:

I am well aware that having a hysterectomy for the sole purpose of not getting pregnant is not permissible.

… and then you go on to say:

jenniferlj77:

My purpose is not to prevent pregnancy, but to prevent the problems that I could face if I got pregnant again.

If your report here is accurate though, your actual purpose is not to get pregnant so you won’t face medical complications resulting from pregnancy. But that is using sterilization both as a means and an end (you are both using sterilization to prevent problems and you are seeking to be sterilized), and that is not permissible.

I strongly recommend that you consult with the National Catholic Bioethics Center. It is perhaps possible that you have not explained the situation clearly. If that is the case, the Center’s experts will know what questions to ask to clarify your situation and will be able to advise you further. The article linked below may also be helpful. God bless.

Recommended reading:

That Celibate Bachelor Was Right! by Rachel Fay