Written by Jamie Taylor. Reviewed by Dr. Anne Mitchell.
Infertility can be one of the most heartbreaking experiences for those hoping to welcome a new baby into their lives. But what happens when someone who has successfully been pregnant is now struggling to conceive again? In this post, we’ll explore the concept of secondary infertility, how it’s diagnosed, and what treatment options might be available based on your age and family goals.
What is Secondary Infertility?
When people think about infertility, they often only consider “primary infertility,” which refers to not achieving a successful pregnancy after a year or more of trying. Secondary infertility, however, pertains to individuals who have previously given birth but are now facing challenges in conceiving again. Although the signs of primary and secondary infertility are largely similar, the key difference lies in having had a previous successful pregnancy.
“You might have had a tough time conceiving your first child, or perhaps it was a breeze. Regardless, secondary infertility can be a surprising and emotionally taxing journey for those wanting to expand their family.”
~ Dr. Anne Mitchell, Co-Chief Medical Officer at OVUM
Research indicates that secondary infertility is just as common—if not more so—than primary infertility, affecting about 12.5% of women.
Causes and Risk Factors of Secondary Infertility
Secondary infertility can arise from a variety of factors, many of which overlap with those that contribute to primary infertility, including genetic and environmental influences. Some specific factors that can heighten the risk of secondary infertility include:
- Age and Hormonal Imbalances: As women age, especially after 35, fertility tends to decline due to a reduced ovarian reserve. Men also experience decreased sperm quality and quantity with age. Hormonal issues such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, and autoimmune conditions can further complicate matters.
- Structural Issues and Blockages: Various anatomical problems, such as congenital defects or complications from previous surgeries (like C-sections), can obstruct fertility. Conditions like endometriosis and STIs can also play a role.
- BMI, Lifestyle Factors, and Medications: Higher body mass index (BMI), smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain medications can negatively impact fertility.
Diagnosing Secondary Infertility
The diagnostic process for secondary infertility resembles that of primary infertility. Your healthcare provider will assess your medical history and any risk factors. Tests may include hormone evaluations, sperm analysis, and ultrasound imaging to check for structural abnormalities.
Treatment Options for Secondary Infertility
Treatment options will vary based on your age, fertility health, identified causes, and future family planning. They can include:
- Fertility Medications: If hormonal imbalances or irregular ovulation cycles are at play, medications like Clomid or metformin may be suggested to stimulate ovulation.
- Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART): Techniques such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF) might be recommended. For more on IUI, check out this excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination.
Also, if you’re interested in exploring unique ways to enhance your journey, you might enjoy this post about veggie-stamped scarves.
In addition, to assist your journey, you can find an authoritative source on at-home insemination kits here.
Summary
Facing secondary infertility can be a challenging and emotional experience, especially for those who have successfully conceived before. Understanding the potential causes, undergoing the right diagnostic tests, and exploring various treatment options can help you navigate this difficult journey.