Naina Shah, 34, and her husband Nikhil, 37 (names changed), both working in the IT sector, conceived their first child without any difficulty. But when they tried for a second baby, things were different. After two years of unsuccessful attempts, they sought medical advice.
Naina’s tests revealed that she had polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), while her husband’s report showed borderline low sperm motility. But with lifestyle changes, medication, and IVF, the couple welcomed a healthy baby girl.
While India faces the growing burden of infertility, there is a parallel issue lurking in mostly urban cities, where couples, despite undergoing natural birth the first time, face challenges with pregnancy the second time.
Doctors and IVF specialists are slowly witnessing increasing cases of, what is now known as secondary infertility.
WHAT IS SECONDARY INFERTILITY
Secondary infertility is the inability to conceive or carry a pregnancy after previously giving birth without medical intervention.
Unlike primary infertility, it often takes couples by surprise.
According to Dr. Mandavi Rai, Senior Fertility & IVF Specialist at Motherhood Fertility & IVF, Noida, the condition can stem from several causes: advancing age, hormonal disorders like PCOS or thyroid issues, blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis, low sperm count, lifestyle habits such as smoking or poor diet, and even complications from a previous pregnancy.
WHAT COUPLE SHOULD WATCH FOR
The clearest sign is the inability to conceive despite trying for a year, or six months if the woman is over 35.
Women may also notice irregular periods, pelvic pain, or unusual bleeding. For men, low sperm quality or sexual health concerns may play a role.
Beyond the physical struggles, the emotional toll can be heavy.
“Secondary infertility can cause stress for couples, often leading to anxiety, depression, and relationship strain. Social pressures may further add to the psychological burden. Medically, untreated underlying conditions like PCOS or endometriosis may worsen over time, making conception even harder,” says Dr. Rai.
WHY EARLY HELP MATTERS
Early medical evaluation is really essential. Fertility testing for both partners can uncover underlying issues and guide treatment.
Options range from lifestyle modifications and medication to procedures like IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) or IVF (In-Vitro Fertilisation).
Dr. Rai points out, “With early intervention, success rates improve significantly. Couples shouldn’t wait too long to seek advice. Secondary infertility can often be managed effectively, giving families the chance to grow again.”
Secondary infertility is a growing concern, but it doesn’t have to be a permanent blocker.
With correct medical evaluation, awareness, and access to modern treatments and advanced ART, secondary fertility can be managed, and just like Naina and Nikhil, many couples can find their way back to parenthood.
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