Secondary infertility is the condition where women who have already had a child before struggle to conceive again. According to studies, 11 percent of couples who already have a child go on to experience secondary infertility.

There are several factors that can lead to secondary infertility, the most important being – advanced age, overweight, or underweight problems, lack of sun exposure, consanguinity, hormonal conditions, and damage from previous pregnancies as problems with previous C-section scar or even lifestyle changes.

For a woman who got pregnant easily before, it’s often hard to understand why she is not getting pregnant again. Also, couples who face secondary infertility can also have a difficult time finding the well-needed support from friends and family. Nonetheless, there are resources couples can opt for to help deal with this condition. Consultation with a fertility specialist is the first step.

(Credit: Dr Laura Melado, IVF Specialist, IVI Middle East Fertility in Abu Dhabi)