Secondary infertility rising in India due to age, lifestyle, and societal pressures.

Secondary infertility, the difficulty conceiving after a previous successful pregnancy, is significantly increasing in India, nearly doubling from 19.5% in the early 1990s to 28.6% by 2015-2016. This rise is attributed to couples delaying childbearing, leading to age-related decline in fertility for women and men. Lifestyle factors like weight gain, thyroid issues, and pollution also contribute. Societal pressures and the pervasive influence of social media exacerbate the emotional burden on couples, who often feel isolated despite the growing prevalence of the condition.

Key Points

  • Secondary infertility in India has nearly doubled, affecting a significant portion of couples.
  • Delayed childbearing, with first babies often arriving in the early 30s, is a major contributing factor.
  • Lifestyle changes, including weight gain, thyroid issues, and pollution, impact both male and female fertility.
  • Societal expectations and social media amplify the emotional distress for couples experiencing secondary infertility.
  • There is a need for greater awareness and open discussion to destigmatize the condition.

Exam Facts

  • Secondary infertility rose from 19.5% (early 1990s) to 28.6% (2015-2016).
  • Data from India's National Family Health Survey.
  • One in five Indian women live with Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS).

Read it. Retain it. Recall it.

Get spaced-repetition flashcards, daily quizzes and offline access — free on Android.

Get it on Google Play

All current affairs of 10 July 2026