Secondary Infertility: Coping with the Challenge of Conceiving a Second Child
Secondary Infertility: Coping with the Challenge of Conceiving a Second Child
For couples who have already experienced the joy of parenthood, secondary infertility can be a painful and unexpected challenge. Secondary infertility refers to the inability to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term after having previously given birth to a child. This can be a difficult experience for couples, who may have assumed that conceiving a second child would be easy.
While secondary infertility is a relatively common experience, it can be isolating and emotionally challenging for couples. The grief and disappointment associated with infertility can be compounded by feelings of guilt or confusion, as couples wonder why they are unable to conceive a second child when they were able to do so previously. In some cases, couples may feel pressure from friends or family members who do not understand the challenges of secondary infertility, which can further exacerbate feelings of isolation and frustration.
If you are struggling with secondary infertility, it is important to remember that you are not alone. There are a number of resources available, including counseling services, support groups, and medical treatments that can help. As a therapist specializing in infertility counseling, I work with many couples who are facing secondary infertility. Through a supportive and non-judgmental approach, I help clients navigate the complex emotions and challenges associated with this experience.
During this time, it is important to prioritize self-care and seek support from loved ones and professionals. This may include finding a support group for couples experiencing secondary infertility, seeking counseling services to explore the emotional impact of infertility, or exploring medical treatments to address underlying fertility issues. Remember that every couple's journey towards parenthood is unique, and there is no "right" way to build a family. With support and compassion, it is possible to find healing and growth in the face of secondary infertility.
Sources:
American Society for Reproductive Medicine. (2023). Infertility FAQs. https://www.reproductivefacts.org/faqs/frequently-asked-questions-about-infertility/
Penn Medicine. (2023). Secondary Infertility. https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/find-a-program-or-service/penn-fertility-care/secondary-infertility
Maureen McCartney, LMFT, PMH-C is a San Diego-based psychotherapist. Maureen has more than 15 years of experience providing counseling to individuals and couples, and she specializes in helping women and men throughout the state of California address the challenges of infertility, pregnancy loss, and perinatal and postpartum mental health issues.