Since I was very young, I knew that I did not want to give birth to children. That’s not to say that I may never want kids in the future—only that I have never felt comfortable being the one to carry them. Because of this, I knew I wanted to explore the available medical options to ensure I could make this choice for myself. In 2023, I was finally able to do so.
Accessing health care as a woman in Texas can be extremely difficult. With the help of my mom and online health care resources, we found a document listing providers in Texas willing to perform a salpingectomy for unmarried, childless women. I was fortunate to find a female doctor in Austin and one who accepted my health insurance. After a few consultations, she agreed to perform the procedure. At that moment, I felt an overwhelming sense of joy—I had been able to make a medical decision for myself without unnecessary barriers.
I know that, unfortunately, this is not the reality for many others in Texas. Even my mother, despite being married with four children, was denied a hysterectomy multiple times. Accessing affordable and comprehensive health care is essential, yet it remains out of reach for many. I am incredibly grateful that I received this procedure without significant pushback. Moving forward, I hope to advocate for increased medical accessibility so that all individuals can make informed decisions about their bodies and health care needs.