Have You Heard About Secondary Infertility? Did You Know, It’s Rising In India?

In 2022, India overtook China as the world’s most populous country. It now has almost 1.46 billion people and is still growing. However, alongside this population surge, infertility rates have also been steadily increasing.

Most people are aware of the term infertility, but did you know there is something called secondary infertility?

It’s a common term, and to your surprise, it’s rising in India. Yes, secondary infertility is becoming more prevalent in India. Studies indicate that its prevalence rose to 28.6% in 2015–16, marking a 5.9% increase. The study used standard demographic definitions and four rounds of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) from 1992–1993 to 2015–16 to estimate the levels of primary and secondary infertility in India.

What is Secondary Infertility? 

It is a condition that affects couples who struggle to conceive again after a successful first pregnancy. “When you are unable to get pregnant or carry a pregnancy to term after you have previously given birth to a child,” said Dr Bhavana Mittal, gynecologist and infertility specialist, Shivam Surgical & Maternity Centre, Delhi.

The doctor further explains that Secondary Infertility can be further classified. “The previous birth must have occurred without the help of fertility medications or treatments,” said Dr Mittal.

Is Secondary Infertility Lesser Known? 
Secondary infertility is known to affect almost 11 percent of the population, according to Dr Mittal. ” It is not an uncommon condition, but because the couple has conceived previously, so there is a delay in acceptance or and seeking of treatment, which causes a delay in diagnoses.”

Factors Causing Secondary Infertility? 
The doctor explains that many reasons could cause secondary infertility.

• Impairment in the quality of the sperm or egg.
• Age of the women.
• Complications in the previous pregnancy.
• Complications from any previous surgeries, including cesarean.
• Increase in weight and body mass index.
• Sexually transmitted infections.
• Lifestyle factors (smoking or alcohol).

Common Causes Of Secondary Infertility In Women?

• Quality or quantity of eggs.
• Sometimes, structural issues like blockage in the tubes.
• Harmonal problems like Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Endometriosis
• Lifestyle changes

Common Causes Of Secondary Infertility In Men?

• It could be due to reduced testosterone levels.
• Harmonal disorders- Thyroid, Diabetes etc.
• Structural problems in the testes, like varicocele.
• Quality of semen.

Stress is also a reason for secondary infertility.

Who Is More Affected By Secondary Infertility? 
Again, there are many parameters to consider. “Couples who delay conception after a certain age can become at risk of being affected by secondary infertility. People who have poor lifestyles, like lack of exercise, poor quality diet consumption, etc,” said Dr Mittal.

Misconceptions Regarding Secondary Infertility

Many times, couples feel that if they have had a successful previous pregnancy, why would there be a problem in the future pregnancy? But the doctor claims it’s possible due to external and internal factors. “Lifestyle changes, different medical conditions. Just because you were fertile during your first pregnancy, it could happen that your second pregnancy may not be the same.”

Prevention of Secondary Infertility 
A good lifestyle is a must, and that is what even Dr. Mittal stresses: “A healthy routine of daily exercise and balanced diet,” said Dr Mittal.