I can't get a second pregnancy
Secondary infertility is the difficulty of getting another pregnancy despite having had a child previously. The problem affects many couples who have successfully conceived their first child. The main causes are the woman's age, hormonal disorders, diseases of the reproductive system and problems with the quality of the partner's sperm. Secondary infertility can also result from being overweight, underweight or taking certain medications. Diagnosis should include examination of both partners, as the causes may lie on either side. Find out detailed information about the causes and treatments for this difficult situation.
Highlights
- Secondary infertility occurs in couples who have conceived their first child but are having difficulty with a subsequent pregnancy.
- A woman's age significantly affects fertility - ovarian follicles become less numerous and of poorer quality.
- Conditions developing after the first birth (fibroids, endometriosis, fallopian tube obstruction) can make subsequent conception difficult.
- Diagnosis of secondary infertility must include both partners, as it may be due to deterioration of semen quality.
Sometimes a couple who has succeeded in conceiving their first child experiences great difficulty in achieving another pregnancy. This condition is referred to as secondary infertility.
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What can be done to get pregnant?
If you want to become a mum, make sure you try for a baby at the best time of your cycle. Find out when your fertile days and ovulation arein order not to miss them in the following month
If you are concerned about your lack of pregnancy and suspect that your difficulties in getting pregnant may be rooted in health problems, Make an appointment at Invimed.
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Why can't I get a second pregnancy?
Among the causes of secondary infertility are:
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a woman's age - as a woman ages, the number of ovarian follicles is reduced and they are of poorer quality than when she first became pregnant;
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endocrine disorders and associated abnormalities of the menstrual cycle;
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conditions of the reproductive system (fibroids, endometriosis, obstruction of the fallopian tubes, etc.) that have developed after the birth of the child;
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underweight or overweight;
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regular intake of drugs with adverse effects on fertility.
Difficulty conceiving a child may also be related to a deterioration in the quality of the partner's sperm, which is why it is important to have a diagnosis of secondary infertility carried out on both partners.
Frequently asked questions - FAQ
Secondary infertility affects approximately 10-15% couples trying for another pregnancy. It is a common problem, although often passed over in silence, as couples feel embarrassed by the difficulties after previous success.
Women under the age of 35 should consult a doctor after one year of unsuccessful efforts, and after 35 after just six months. In the case of secondary infertility, it is advisable to visit earlier if changes in the cycle have occurred.
Yes, breastfeeding inhibits ovulation through increased prolactin production. Even after weaning, it can take several months for the cycle to normalise, affecting fertility.
The greater the interval between pregnancies, the greater the risk of secondary infertility due to the natural decline in fertility with age. The optimal interval is 18-24 months, but this is not always feasible.
The medical information presented should be considered as general guidelines and does not replace the individual judgement of the doctor regarding the medical management of each patient. The doctor, after a thorough examination of the patient's condition, determines the extent and frequency of diagnostic tests and/or therapeutic procedures, taking into account specific medical indications. All medical decisions are made in full consultation with the patient.
Author of the article
Invimed editorial team - we serve patients by solving their fertility problems. We use world medical knowledge, state-of-the-art technology and treatment methods. We are here to make dreams of parenthood come true. The smiles on the faces of happy parents give meaning to our work.
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