A young woman is driven to an outpatient surgery center by an older man. She looks frail and distraught. As the two approach the reception desk, her companion takes control of the situation. “Miss Jones is here for a tubal ligation,” he says.The receptionist asks, “Do you have insurance?” He answers for her, “No, we’ll pay cash.”
“That will be $1,700. Here is the form to sign, ” said the receptionist. She slides the paper toward the woman. The young woman sighs as she nervously signs her name. He quickly writes a check.
Then the woman is ushered into a back room and given a gown. There is no explanation of what the procedure entails. Two hours later, she appears in a wheelchair, groggy from the procedure and is helped into his waiting car.
The sterilization center made a quick $1,700 sale. Her lover is now free to enjoy unprotected sex with her without the complication of pregnancy until he moves on to someone else. However, her life has been irrevocably altered. Continue reading “Intimidation or Informed Consent?”
Jane Chastain 