In this article:
Infections After Delivery
The chances of infections are higher after childbirth, making them the most common complications. The risk increases further when you deliver your baby via caesarean section, have prolonged labour, or retain placenta. This leads to various problems in your reproductive organs, such as the fallopian tubes, uterus, or pelvic area.If your tubes get blocked due to scarring from infections, it will prevent the egg from meeting the sperm for the fertilisation process, which is necessary to conceive.
You have a higher chance of getting pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) due to chronic infections. This condition further reduces your fertility due to several complications.
What can you do?
Watch for early signs of infection, such as pain, abnormal discharge, or fever. Take care of your wound to avoid infections and complete the course of antibiotics as directed by your doctor. Visit the hospital for follow-ups to complete the healing process.Severe Postpartum Bleeding (Haemorrhage)
Sometimes, you may bleed heavily after birth, also known as postpartum haemorrhage, causing damage to your uterine lining. In rare cases, it requires surgical procedures to treat it, which affects your fertility.In extreme situations, your uterus may have to be removed (hysterectomy) to prevent risks, making it impossible to carry future pregnancies.
What can you do?
Seek medical guidance and care if you experience heavy bleeding after childbirth to avoid any long-term damage to your organs.Uterine Scarring (Asherman’s Syndrome)
Some cases require medical procedures after childbirth for removing a retained placenta or to control bleeding. These procedures may leave scarring in your uterus, which is called Asherman’s syndrome.Your periods may become irregular or be absent due to scarring, thus reducing your chances of conception.
What can you do?
Consult your gynaecologist if your periods do not return or become light for no apparent reason. You can restore your fertility by receiving treatment for Asherman’s syndrome as early as possible.Cesarean Section Complications
Generally, a C-section is a safe procedure to deliver a baby, but complications can arise in any case. Scar tissue may develop in your uterus or fallopian tubes, causing pain or making conception difficult.What can you do?
Consult your doctor if you have had a C-section in the past and are unable to conceive again despite multiple attempts. They may suggest scans to check for scarring or other anatomical issues.Hormonal Imbalances After Childbirth
Your hormone levels fluctuate after childbirth and during breastfeeding, which is normal in many cases. However, it may continue longer than expected for some individuals, affecting their ovulation.- Thyroid disorders (common after pregnancy) may delay ovulation.
- Prolonged high levels of prolactin (the milk-producing hormone) may interfere with menstrual cycles.
What can you do?
Seek medical advice if your periods remain absent or irregular long after weaning to check for thyroid or hormonal issues.Complications During Labour
Prolonged or difficult labour causes damage to your reproductive organs. Some emergencies may even require interventions from a doctor, leading to trauma to your cervix or uterus. This can make it harder for sperm to pass through your tract or for an embryo to implant.What can you do?
Inform your doctor about the complications during your previous childbirth to receive guidance on planning your next one.Emotional and Psychological Impact
Physical complications can make conceiving difficult, but emotional trauma from previous delivery experience, miscarriage, or loss of a baby will add to it. Stress and anxiety about conceiving again can also affect your hormones and ovulation.What can you do?
Connect with a support group, get counselling or therapy sessions to recover emotionally from your childbirth.How to Protect Your Fertility After Childbirth
The good thing is you can protect your fertility even after experiencing complications in the past. Many individuals go on to have healthy pregnancies after making a full recovery from their initial condition.- Attend all postnatal check-ups to detect problems at their early stages.
- Practice good hygiene to prevent infection.
- Eat well and rest adequately to support the healing process.
- Seek medical advice if your cycles do not return after weaning.
You can take positive steps to save your fertility and prepare your body for a healthy pregnancy whenever you are ready in the future.
Whether you’re trying to conceive or navigating IVF, you’re not alone. Join our supportive communities to connect, share, and find strength with others on the same journey.
FAQs on How Complications After Childbirth Can Affect Fertility Later
- If I had an infection after childbirth, does it mean I can’t get pregnant again?
Infections do not affect your fertility if you receive timely treatment. However, repeated or untreated infections may leave scars that can affect your fertility. - Can a C-section reduce fertility?
A C-section does not reduce fertility, but the complications associated with it, such as scar tissue or defects of the cesarean scar, can make conception difficult. - How long should I wait to try for another baby after a complicated delivery?
Most doctors recommend waiting for at least 12 to 18 months before planning the next pregnancy. However, if you had a complicated birth, it is best to ask your doctor before trying again to conceive.
