QuestionI gave birth to my first son 2 years ago. He was conceived very easily (within 2 months) and I had a good pregnancy. After 3 failed inductions I underwent a C section. One week later I suffered a post partum hemorhage and underwent a D&C. I have been trying to get pregnant again for the last year but with no sucess. Could my previous pregnancy complications be affecting my fertility?
AnswerBoth c-sections and D&C procedures can affect fertility later on. Sometimes the lining of the uterus is adversely affected, making it more difficult for an egg to implant once fertilized. Sometimes scar tissue builds up, again blocking implantation. Sometimes the mechanism is unclear, unfortunately. This is why it is so important to avoid those c-sections whenever possible in the future, so you can minimize these difficulties next time around. Make sure you research your rights regarding a VBAC and avoiding unnecessary inductions and interventions with this next birth.
For now, have you been tracking your ovulation? If not, check out the free charting software available at www.fertilityfriend.com. Here, you can learn how to chart your Basal Body Temperature (BBT) and detect ovulation accurately, without expensive tests. You can try to conceive for years, but if you're hitting the wrong dates, you won't get pregnant.
If that fails, definitely check with your doctor. Your doctor can do tests to check for blockages in your tubes or uterus, or see if there might be a new hormonal problem.
Good luck!
