If you are reading this article, then probably you are looking for the answer to why you are unable to conceive a second time, if everything goes fine in the first pregnancy. You are not alone. The reason behind secondary infertility is associated with the natural process required to conceive. Your fertility condition may change after the first pregnancy. Well! There are multiple reasons which can lead to secondary infertility.
Possible Causes Behind Secondary Infertility
Age is the main culprit for infertility, as after crossing 35 you’re ovarian reserves drop, and this results in declination of egg quality and count.
Also, 12% of secondary infertility results because of weight issues.
Eating unhealthy food also acts as a hindrance for both primary and secondary pregnancy.
But only women are not responsible for infertility(Female Infertility); males are also equally responsible for infertility(Male Infertility). Those with a BMI more than 30 come under obese and contain low sperm count, which results in infertility.
Possible Causes of Secondary Infertility (Women)
• Fallopian tube ruptures because of abnormal pregnancy.
• Complications in previous pregnancy like C-section.
• Blockage because of fibroids.
• Age factor which leads to fewer quality eggs.
Possible Causes of Secondary Infertility (Men)
• Increase in weight and age.
• Too much alcohol consumption and smoking.
• Consumption of certain medications.
• Issues in sperm production and its transmission.
When Should you Seek Medical Advice?
Conceive after one year of unprotected sex, or if you are above 35 and unable to become pregnant in six months, then consult your doctor. In case of any known problem like painful periods, low quality sperm count, irregular periods, miscarriage, etc., don’t wait for six months or one year, consult your doctor right away.
Available secondary infertility treatment
If your previous pregnancy never involved any type of complications, then secondary infertility treatment might scare you at the first moment. The treatment involves knowing the root cause of infertility, and your doctor may advise you some tests which involve:
• Blood test for checking the hormone level
• Ovulation test
• Pelvic examination
• X-ray for the examination of the fallopian tube
• Ultrasound
In case all the reports come normal, the doctor will suggest a test for your partner. Once the problem is detected, your doctor will start the treatment plan to boost fertility. Below are some common treatments that are done in the case of female infertility.
Medicines
Through medications, it is possible to normalize hormones. Also, medications are given to enhance the chances of fertility through stimulation of ovulation. PCOS is a common reason, and over-the-counter pills can stimulate ovulation and maintaining a healthy weight can enhance pregnancy chances in case if the doctor says that weight is a major concern.
Surgery
In some cases, surgery becomes mandatory. Many surgical procedures can be done to treat uterine fibroids, endometriosis or uterine scarring. Most of the surgeries are done with minimal incision. Hysteroscopy is employed to cure uterus abnormalities like polyps and endometriosis. Laparoscopy is used when other surgical procedures are unable to detect the cause of infertility, or it can be used as an effective tool with Hysteroscopy.
It may sound scary to undergo surgery, but being told that this procedure can surely treat your infertility can surely encourage you.
Advanced reproductive technology (ART)
This advanced technology involves two types of procedures, namely intrauterine insemination (IUI) and IVF Treatment.
In IUI, sperm is directly injected in the uterus during ovulation. In IVF, both woman’s egg and man’s sperm is collected. In labs, eggs are fertilized with sperm and embryos are developed. The embryo is further implanted into the woman’s uterus.
Be ready for emotions and reactions
It happens with many couples who face no issues during the first pregnancy and struggle to have a second baby. This is a common cause, and you may feel guilty or sadness because of infertility. Don’t hesitate to seek psychological help if you require any. Keeping yourself positive is the only thing which will help you out. With the help of technological advancement, modern science, therapies and skilled professionals, it is possible to overcome the problem of secondary infertility.
The Takeaway
Secondary infertility can make you and your partner emotionally week. You should consult your doctor and let him know about your concerns and struggles. The doctor can guide you about the proper treatment, and this way, you can again become pregnant. Be strong, (it’s OK if you want to cry), share your feelings with your loved ones, read inspiring stories and most importantly, never lose hope.
Our Good Wishes Are Always With You. Best of Luck For Family Planning!