You must have come around a couple in your friend circle or face a situation yourself when you want to have a second child but not able to conceive as easily as you or your friend did during the first pregnancy.
This is a very common problem among Indian women. Women in the latter age bracket typically display lower fertility rates. The shifting demographic trend, coupled with increasing contraceptive use has given further rise to infertility in India.
Definition
Secondary infertility is a healthy couple’s inability to achieve a second pregnancy, despite having unprotected sex. It generally happens to women who are more than 35 years of age.
Causes of secondary infertility can be many such as
• Damage to the Fallopian tube,
• Ovulation disorders,
• Endometriosis,
• Pelvic inflammatory disease,
• Blockage which is caused by fibroids,
• Impaired sperm production and delivery,
• Age, weight or use of certain medications.
According to experts around the globe; age and weight gain are the prominent cause of secondary infertility.
When to see the doctor and what to expect?
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The most important thing while dealing with this issue is to understand the root of secondary infertility and when to consult the doctor. If you are trying for a baby for more than 3 months and you are not successful, it is time to consult the doctor.
Any gynaecologist will examine the belly and pelvic area to see whether you have contracted pelvic inflammatory disease, fibroids, endometriosis or even ovarian cyst. Your spouse will be examined for scrotum swelling. After the basic check-up, you will go for the following prenatal tests to find out the reason for secondary infertility.
Tests
Cervical smear test, blood test, Urine test, etc are prenatal tests. The blood test is done to check immunity to rubella, chickenpox etc that could even fatally harm the unborn baby. The urine test is done, check if for signs of Chlamydia.
Men undergo sperm and urine test to check function and delivery of sperms and Chlamydia.
On the basis of the result of your tests, the doctor will do the further treatment. If the reports are normal, then you do not have to worry anything. The doctor might ask you to do make some changes in your lifestyle and keep trying for the baby.
Psychological impact and Remedies:
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The secondary infertility can upset you, 15 percent couples with unexplained fertility conceive naturally within a year. As mentioned earlier, age is an important factor. Women under 30 years of age have more chances of conceiving than women above.
The couple suffering from secondary infertility should take their time to adjust to the reality. Those who think that they need another child to accompany their first child should try to develop such a relationship with him or her that he or she may not feel alone and be happy.
You can also have secondary infertility issues due to obesity or ill habits in your partner like smoking or drinking. Eat fertility-boosting food. If you notice signs of infertility, immediately consult your OB-GYN. You may also get help from support groups where you will find many like you.