📖 Table of Contents
What Is Secondary Infertility?
Secondary infertility refers to the inability to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term after previously giving birth. It can be confusing and emotionally distressing, especially if the first pregnancy was smooth.
At Dr. Richa Gangwar’s fertility clinic in Lucknow, we often meet couples who are surprised and even guilt-ridden by their struggles. They wonder why it’s suddenly difficult when they already had a child.
The truth is: your body and circumstances can change, and secondary infertility is more common than most people think.
Why Does It Happen After a Healthy First Pregnancy?
Even if your first child was conceived easily, several factors may now be affecting your fertility. Time, age, lifestyle, medical conditions, or previous complications during delivery can all contribute.
Secondary infertility is not your fault, and it does not mean you won’t conceive again. But it’s important to identify what has changed — so you can receive the right guidance.
Common Causes in Women
For women, the most common causes of secondary infertility include:
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Age-related decline in egg quality – especially if you’re over 35
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Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) – hormonal imbalance may worsen over time
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Blocked fallopian tubes – possibly from infections, endometriosis, or past surgeries
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Uterine conditions – fibroids, scar tissue (Asherman’s Syndrome), or changes after a C-section
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Weight gain or metabolic changes – which can disrupt ovulation
Sometimes, irregular periods, thyroid issues, or diabetes can emerge after the first pregnancy, silently affecting fertility.
Common Causes in Men
Secondary infertility is not just a female issue — around 30–40% of cases involve male factors. These may include:
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Reduced sperm count or motility
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Increased stress or lifestyle changes (alcohol, smoking, weight gain)
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Infections or medications
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Varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum)
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Age-related decline in sperm quality
At our clinic, we evaluate both partners thoroughly. Open, non-blaming conversations are essential — fertility is a shared journey.
Emotional Impact on Couples
The emotional pain of secondary infertility is real and often overlooked. You may feel:
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Confused: “Why now?”
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Guilty: “I already have one child — should I be grateful and stop?”
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Isolated: “Others don’t understand what I’m going through.”
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Pressured: “When will you give your child a sibling?”
These emotions are valid. You deserve care that addresses both your physical and emotional well-being.
Dr. Richa Gangwar offers counselling support, along with fertility treatment, to help couples process their emotions without shame or pressure.
Diagnosis & When to Seek Help
If you’ve been trying to conceive for over 12 months (or 6 months if over 35) without success, it’s time for an evaluation.
We begin with:
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Hormonal blood tests
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Ultrasound scans to assess ovaries and uterus
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HSG (tubal testing)
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Semen analysis for your partner
Identifying the root cause helps tailor the right plan — whether it’s simple ovulation tracking or more advanced treatments.
Available Treatment Options
Secondary infertility can often be treated successfully with:
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Lifestyle changes and ovulation tracking
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Ovulation induction medications
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IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) – especially with mild male factor or hormonal imbalance
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IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) – for egg quality, tubal issues, or unexplained infertility
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ICSI or TESA – in case of severe male factor infertility
Each couple is different. At Dr. Richa Gangwar’s fertility center, we build individualized treatment plans based on diagnosis, age, goals, and emotional comfort.
Final Thoughts: There Is Hope
Struggling with secondary infertility does not mean your body has failed you. It simply means that it needs a little more support this time.
At Dr. Richa Gangwar’s fertility clinic in Lucknow, we walk with you — offering:
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Honest answers
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Ethical and advanced treatment
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Gentle emotional care
You are not alone. Whether you’re hoping to grow your family or simply understand your options, we are here — with heart, hope, and healing.
