Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

If a woman is unable to bear children due to age or surgery, she can still marry in the Church, according to Church laws. The Sacrament of Marriage is both a spiritual and legal institution governed by Church laws. Catholics have the right to marry in the Church (CIC c. 1058), but this right is not absolute. Acceptance of the Church's understanding of marriage is required, which includes mutual partnership for procreation and the good of spouses.

Certain legal categories, known as Diriment Impediments, can disqualify someone from marrying in the Church. These impediments may arise from Natural Law, Divine Law, or ecclesiastical law. Infertility is not listed among these impediments; "Sterility neither prohibits nor nullifies marriage" (CIC c. 1084 §3). While marriage should be open to life and sexual activity should allow for conception if possible (CIC c. 1061 §1), infertility does not invalidate a marriage.

Children are considered a gift from God, and their absence does not diminish the validity of a marriage. Couples must enter into marriage with intentions aligned with its purposes, even if those intentions are not fully realized.

A woman who voluntarily becomes infertile through medical procedures can still marry in the Church if she repents and confesses her actions. If reversing such procedures is possible without significant financial or health risks, moral theologians suggest it should be done but it is not mandatory.