Secondary Infertility

A woman is said to suffer from secondary infertility when she experiences difficulties conceiving after she has already been able to have at least one child. The number of couples experiencing this problem is rising, and it is at least as common as primary infertility. The tendency for women to wait until their thirties before having their first child is considered a contributing factor.

Bridget, age 38, came for homeopathic treatment because she wanted to have another baby. She had only had two periods since the birth of her daughter a little over two years ago. Her little girl, who was still breastfeeding, came along to Bridget’s appointment. Bridget had been advised to wean her daughter, but she did not want to do this, feeling that her daughter was breastfeeding for comfort.

We discussed Bridget’s health history. She had experienced a bout of depression beginning before her daughter’s birth, which was notable from a homeopathic point of view, because it is rare for women to experience depression while still pregnant. In addition to her infertility, she was concerned about her coffee habit. She was drinking many cups a day even though it disagreed with her. Bridget was active and enjoyed going for walks.

Difficulties during pregnancy and the postpartum period, as well as Bridget’s sweet nature, food cravings, and desire for fresh air led me to prescribe Pulsatilla. A few days after her first dose, she had a heavy period. I advised her to repeat the dose fourteen days later, to encourage her body to ovulate. A few weeks afterwards, Bridget had a positive pregnancy test. Her baby is due in about four months. Bridget has been feeling good and she has had an uncomplicated pregnancy thus far. Scans show that she is carrying a healthy baby. Bridget’s coffee cravings have completely abated and she is still able to breastfeed her daughter.

This case was submitted by Julia Schiller, who is an intern member of NZCH and as such is currently completing the requirements for full registration. Her practice, Glendowie Homeopathy, is in Auckland.