KISHORI IVF
What is Secondary Infertility and How Does it Affect Couples?
Secondary infertility is the inability to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term after previously giving birth. It’s not as uncommon as you might think. In fact, in India, around 2.75 crore couples struggle with infertility, and approximately 30% of these are already parents. This means around 82 lakh couples face difficulties with second pregnancies. Secondary infertility can be emotionally and physically exhausting, often leaving couples surprised and confused, especially after a successful first pregnancy.
Why is Secondary Infertility Surprising for Many Couples?
For many, secondary infertility comes as a shock. After all, if you’ve already had a successful pregnancy, you might assume conceiving again will be easy. However, the reality is that secondary infertility can affect both men and women. Many couples delay seeking medical advice, believing they just need more time, but identifying the problem early is key to treatment success.
What Causes Secondary Infertility?
Secondary infertility can result from a variety of factors. Ageing, lifestyle changes, and even previous pregnancy complications can all play a role. Below are some common causes of secondary infertility:
- Lifestyle Factors: Habits like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet, and lack of exercise can contribute to infertility.
- Age: Both male and female fertility decline with age, making it harder to conceive.
- Low Sperm Count: In men over 40, sperm count and quality may decrease, affecting fertility.
- Diminished Ovarian Reserve: Women are born with a limited number of eggs, which decreases with age, reducing the chances of conception.
- Hormonal Imbalance: Thyroid issues or other hormonal imbalances can lead to infertility in both partners.
- PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome): This condition can prevent ovulation, making it difficult to conceive.
- Endometriosis: Scarring or tissue growth outside the uterus can hinder conception.
- Uterine Fibroids: These non-cancerous growths can block sperm from fertilizing an egg.
- Blocked Fallopian Tubes: Fallopian tubes transport eggs to the uterus; blockages can prevent fertilization.
- Isthmocele: Scarring from a previous C-section can reduce the chances of pregnancy.
- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Certain infections can affect fertility.
- Unexplained Infertility: Sometimes, there is no clear cause for infertility, even after thorough testing.
How Can Secondary Infertility Be Diagnosed?
If you’re struggling with secondary infertility, it’s important to seek medical advice early. Both partners should be evaluated to determine the root cause. For women, tests may include blood work, ultrasounds, X-rays, and examinations of the uterus. For men, a semen analysis and general health check-up are essential to identify any issues with sperm count or quality.
What Are the Treatment Options for Secondary Infertility?
Once diagnosed, treatment options for secondary infertility are similar to those for primary infertility. Here are some of the most common treatments available:
- Hormonal Medications: To correct imbalances that might be hindering fertility.
- Surgery: To treat conditions like endometriosis, blocked fallopian tubes, or fibroids.
- Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART): Procedures like Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), and other techniques can help in cases where simpler treatments don’t work.
How Can You Cope with the Emotional Stress of Secondary Infertility?
Secondary infertility often brings emotional challenges. Couples may feel guilty or conflicted, especially if they already have one child. It’s important to acknowledge these feelings and not blame yourself or your partner. Here are some ways to cope with the stress:
- Seek Support: Talk to others who have faced secondary infertility to learn how they coped.
- Stay Informed: Learn as much as you can about your condition and treatment options.
- Focus on Family: Spending time with your first child can help reduce the emotional toll.
What is the Outlook for Couples Facing Secondary Infertility?
Secondary infertility can feel overwhelming, but many of the causes can be treated successfully. The key is to consult an experienced infertility specialist who can guide you through the process. With the right support and treatment plan, there’s a good chance you’ll be able to conceive again.
Call/Whatsapp: 7608-961-332/7381-060-332 to book an Appointment
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more.
