Why can't I get pregnant?

When falling pregnant isn't easy

Once you have decided that you are ready to embark on the journey into parenthood, often you expect that it’s all going to magically happen!  For many of us, so much effort has been put into ensuring that you don’t fall pregnant. So, it is often expected that falling pregnant should be a straight forward, natural step.

Why can’t I get pregnant?

The experience of trying to get pregnant can be all-consuming.  If you have been trying to get pregnant without success, it is natural to feel frustrated and disappointed when you realise that you have not conceived at each cycle and it’s not happening.

You may also, quite understandably, feel angry, jealous or resentful of others around you if you are finding it hard to conceive – particularly towards those who seem to be able to fall pregnant more quickly, effortlessly or accidentally.

Things to keep in mind if you’re struggling to fall pregnant

Falling pregnant can take time

Medically, you are not considered to have fertility problems until you have been trying to fall pregnant for twelve months.  

If you are over 30, some suggest allowing at least six months before seeking assistance or help getting pregnant. However, you may want to seek advice sooner if you are getting to the latter years of your thirties or early forties.

You are not alone

Infertility affects 10-15% of all couples of reproductive age. The likelihood of infertility increases in cases where the women is over 35, where the incidence of infertility increases to one in six.

Be proactive

Talk to your doctor if you have been trying but are not falling pregnant. Order tests to check if there is an issue with you or your partner sooner than later, particularly if you are over 35.

There are options

Discuss fertility options.  It may be helpful to agree with your practitioner that, if you are not falling pregnant by a certain time point, you will reconsider your options for fertility treatment.  

There are a range of different levels and types of treatment to be considered with your health professional if you are having problems conceiving. These range from tablets taken over a short time period to increase ovulation through to more intensive interventions like Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF).

Coping with secondary infertility

If you fell pregnant with your first baby quickly, it can be confusing, frustrating and heartbreaking when you’re not getting pregnant the second time around. In fact, many parents describe feeling shocked.

It is also common to feel more tired, and often there can be added pressure on your relationship.  To top it all off, people may tell you, “Just relax.” This can make you feel that they don’t understand and leave you feeling more isolated.

"But we already have a baby? Why can’t we have another one?"

While many of the emotions and challenges are similar to those experienced by hopeful parents trying to conceive their first baby, secondary infertility comes with unique grief and pain.

"It’s so hard knowing I can get pregnant without having a reason why it’s not happening again."

If you had a clear idea of what you wanted your family to look like, for example having two children close together, it can be painful as the months or years pass by and the age gap increases. And, if your child is longing for a sibling, this can be particularly hard to cope with.

"It’s a rollercoaster each month as your baby gets bigger and bigger."

But along with grief and yearning for another baby, there can also be strong feelings of guilt. These feelings are often compounded by comments from well-meaning friends and relatives such as, “You’re lucky you have a child! So many couples can’t have any children.”

The guilt can leave many parents suffering in silence. They may unable to talk those with primary infertility. Equally, they may find it painful being around those who’ve been able to “complete” their families.

"I felt so alone and guilty for struggling with it."

"I was a member of a secret club I didn’t want to be a part of."

Looking after yourself when trying to get pregnant

It’s important to take care of yourself while you’re trying to get pregnant. Try to stay connected to your partner and your little ones as you navigate this path. Here are some tips to help you cope:

Be proactive

Speak up!  It’s important to speak to your doctor about your options. Raise any questions or concerns if you feel you need help getting pregnant.

Be gentle with yourself

Allow yourself to feel whatever you’re feeling. Remember, deep sadness and grief is valid. Try to view your emotions as temporary states that will come and go: “This is how I’m feeling right now,” or, “Today I’m feeling angry and heartbroken.” It’s possible to feel both gratitude that you have a child and grief and sadness around wanting another baby when it’s simply not happening. 

It’s okay to avoid difficult situations

Remember that it’s okay not to put yourself in situations that trigger your pain about not getting pregnant. This may mean sending a gift instead of going to a baby shower. Or, you may choose to wait to visit a new friend’s second or third baby until you’re feeling up to it. It’s okay to put your needs and feelings first.

Find people you can confide in

Connect with others going through the same journey via Facebook groups or online forums. Many Trying to Conceive (TTC) forums have particular sub-groups for those going through secondary infertility. You’re not alone, even if it might feel that way sometimes. 

Seek professional help

Don’t be afraid to seek professional help if your feelings are overwhelming. There are various support services available for people experiencing infertility, including couples counselling, if it's taking its toll on your relationship.