It’s frustrating to find it’s hard to conceive second time around. Secondary infertility (SI) is often a taboo area, leaving couples isolated and perplexed.

What is Secondary Infertility?

SI is deemed an inability to conceive, or carry to term, a subsequent pregnancy. It accounts for about six out of 10 infertility cases, and affects about 1:5 couples trying for another baby. Often it’s unexplained, or is caused by a combination of factors in about 40% of couples. We’re talking hormone and ovulation problems or tubal damage for women, and sperm issues in men. Why does this happen?

Fertility levels shift after a baby. Pregnancy takes a toll. The body needs a year to fully replenish and normalise after  growing a tiny human. Thyroid function and  insulin processing may be out of kilter after pregnancy. This impacts the ovaries and egg quality. C-section birth makes conceiving again longer, according to a study by Bristol University. A traumatic birth may be an emergency situation with forceps, ventouse or haemorrhage. An ill or premature baby is a huge worry for new parents.  It’s not surprising if it affects fertility afterwards. Sleepless nights, caring for baby and getting back to work are relentless. Underlying medical or gynae problems may flare up. Post-natal infections often remain undetected. Sex can be a casualty of new family life. Lack of sleep, lack of libido and lack of opportunity are offenders here. Orgasm changes after delivery, they can feel different, diffuse and be less reliable. Lack of lubrication is usually a temporary hormonal problem, alleviated by KY. Periods either arrive like clockwork six weeks after your baby or stay erratic for a few months. Breastfeeding moms often don’t menstruate while they nurse, although it’s never recommended as a contraceptive.

Life is busy with a child. It’s hard to eat well and too many take-aways lead to weight gain. Exercise routines are not as reliable and carrying extra weight  messes with hormones. Men’s fertility changes, too. Fathering an infant is no guarantee of easy conception in the future. Time passes and weight creeps on as exercise levels drop and alcohol intake rises.

Fertility Coaching

Fertility coaching gets fertility back on track, gives real support and helps resolve emotional issues.

I blend therapy and coaching to resolve a host of issues and clear the way for pregnancy.

Here are some of those life issues which often crop up: Anxiety, recurrent miscarriage, traumatic birth, motivation to shed weight and to exercise, sex and marital upset, work worries, caring for ageing parents, bereavement.

Emotional states impact fertility status. What might be holding you back from conceiving? Roadblocks to conceiving include the stress of trying to conceive, anxiety depression, relationship and sex issues, whether you’re on the same page, money, work, career, staying home, size of your apartment or house.

Call me to see how fertility coaching can help you.