Secondary Infertility: A Major Concern For Parents These Days

If getting on the road to motherhood for the first time around was like a cinch, you are bound to expect that you will be able to score a second pregnancy just as effortlessly. However, for most couples who desire to expand their family further that may not always be the case. The road to pregnancy for the second time might not be as easy as your first time. This kind of fertility problem is termed as secondary infertility which is the incapability to get pregnant or even carry a pregnancy to term post you have already had a baby. The most common anxiety that seems to upset couples is why are they not able to conceive for the second time, although they got pregnant so easily before.

Studies have indicated that most couples tend to experience secondary infertility more often than primary infertility. This condition is primarily common in females who wait till the time they are in their late 30s or even 40s, when fertility rates take a drop, to have their second child. Most parents tend to draw a psychological image of their perfect family, and if they scout themselves incapable to make that happen, it can be very devastating for them.

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What leads to secondary infertility?

• At times glitches in expecting for the second or subsequent time are linked to a complication that may have happened in a previous pregnancy or before delivery, for example, any damage to the uterus.
• But most often, secondary infertility is triggered by the same aspects that would lead to primary infertility — features like advanced age, problems in ovulation and obesity issues to name a few. 
• Apart from these other factors like reduced sperm production and diminished sperm function in men, damage to the fallopian tube, endometriosis and uterine conditions in women, risk factor variations for you or your partner, like weight, age and usage of certain medications can also lead to infertility while trying to conceive for the second time.

 When should you visit the fertility expert?

• If you are comprehending on the fact that it’s time to seek fertility aid from a specialist, your age can be a major clue to your question.
• If you are younger than the age bracket of 35 years, it’s perfectly normal for it to take about six months to close to a year for you to conceive.
• If even after a year, you have failed to accomplish your goal of conception you must consider talking with a skilled fertility specialist.
• If you are older than 35 years of age and have tried for six months, it is recommended that you must seek for assistance from a fertility specialist and you may even consult an expert after three months.
• However, if you or your partner are above forty years of age you will perhaps want to start your journey for a second pregnancy with a fertility assessment from your doctor straight away.

• Of course, if you have a history of infertility or any aspects that might obstruct fertility, it makes sense to arm yourself with the right kind of assistance from the start itself.
• Just like primary infertility, secondary infertility can also be taxed at the same time.
• This stems from a multitude of aspects, though it may be hard to identify what precisely is the source of the issue. Various technologically advanced assisted fertility treatments available may lend a helping hand and increase your pregnancy odds.
• Above all, it is significant to reminisce that secondary infertility is more common than you think.
• Even if you did not require help the first time, it’s completely fine to ask for both emotional support and medical help. Your feelings and your productiveness goals should never be terminated.
• Whether you’re working towards your first child, second child, or simply the newest addition, effective fertility treatments will surely help you achieve a happy and healthy family.

(Inputs by Dr Rajalaxmi Walavalkar, Medical Director, Senior Gynaecologist and IVF specialist at Cocoon Fertility)

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