For many years, we were trying to become pregnant. After two successful pregnancies, my OB was not optomistic about our ability to have any more children. We discussed options, in case we wanted to prevent any future pregnancies, given my health considerations.
Unfortunately for me, I have a severe allergic reaction to any spermicides, so that prevents the use of condoms, jells, creams, etc. Historically low blood pressure made birth-control pills a bad idea. A diaphragm would not work well with my endometriosis. And since we were absorbing and paying thousands of dollars in medical bills, we simply didn't have the resources two years ago to have my husband undergo a vasectomy.
Thankfully, our financial situation is much brighter now; we've paid down a huge hunk of the debt. Hubby was going to go for the vasectomy when, surprise, the Lord blessed us again! I'm frightened, but excited. Who knows what greatness this child might achieve? Who knows what comfort they may bring me? Who knows how loving or confrontational they may be, what trials and tests they will put me through? I pray I will be here for all of it, every wonderful, maddening moment of it.
And so we are accepting His wisdom, embracing His will. In the end, I want to know I did what God wants, what He has asked of me.
Should this little one make it, I will probably ask to have my tubes tied during the c-section. I will need to consult with my Priest, first, though, and do some heavy praying, before making this decision. I don't want to leave my babies and beloved husband behind, either, believe me, but I also want to go to my Creator knowing I served His will faithfully.
That would probably be a good idea regardless of what any priest might say. It is your life at risk not his.
As one that has been through it and fortunate enough that both mother and baby survived, but the doctor thought it best not to tempt fate. We accepted our gift from God and chose to not press our luck. We felt it would be very selfish to try for more nad leave the children motherless.
Medical exceptions... though you would really have to talk a priest for more info. Pinging some more informed RCs on FR.