WATCH YOUR WORDS

Secondary infertility can be enormously stressful, frustrating and saddening for couples. Be sure to take care of your emotional needs and your relationship as a couple during this difficult time.

Family and friends sometimes fail to understand the intense yearning for a second child and may even seem unsupportive. One mom reports, “People would say things like: ‘Well at least you’ve got one child.’ They seemed to think we were ungrateful for what we had, and making too much of the desire for another baby. I think they were trying to cheer me up, but it was very hurtful, as if they were dismissing a very painful experience.”

While couples with primary infertility are likely to seek medical help and counselling, couples with secondary infertility are often less quick to get help. Recognise that you are in an extremely difficult situation, and don’t be shy to get professional input.