How to Recognize and Address the Causes of Secondary Infertility?
Trying to have another baby and it's just not happening? You’re not alone. Secondary infertility can be a surprising and frustrating experience for many couples. It’s when you’re having trouble getting pregnant or carrying a pregnancy to term after already having one or more children. This can happen to both men and women, and understanding the different causes of secondary infertility can help you figure out what’s going on and what steps you can take next.
What Exactly is Secondary Infertility?
So, you've had a baby before, and now you're trying again, but things aren't going as smoothly as expected. That's what we call secondary infertility. It’s when a couple struggles to conceive or keep a pregnancy after already having one child naturally. This situation can be just as stressful and confusing as primary infertility. The good news? Knowing what might be causing it can help guide your next steps [1].
Top Tip: If you’ve been trying for six months to a year with no luck, consider talking to a doctor to explore your options.
What Could Be the Causes of Secondary Infertility?
Age: A Big Factor
Let's get real—age matters. One of the main causes of secondary infertility is simply getting older. For women, fertility declines significantly after 35 [2]. Men aren’t exempt from this either; sperm quality and quantity can decrease with age too.
Advice: If you’re over 35 and have been trying for six months without success, it's probably time to see a specialist.
Hormonal Imbalances
Hormonal imbalances can play a huge role in secondary infertility causes. Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid problems can mess with ovulation in women or affect sperm production in men. These issues can sneak up on you, even if things were fine the first time around [3].
Top Tip: Regularly checking your hormone levels can help catch any imbalances early and keep your fertility on track.
Physical Issues or Past Surgeries
Sometimes, the problem isn’t about age or hormones; it’s physical. Scarring from surgeries, infections, or conditions like endometriosis can block the fallopian tubes or affect the uterus, making it harder for women to conceive [4]. Men can also face physical issues like varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum) which affects sperm quality.
Top Tip: Don’t overlook regular health checks; early detection of physical issues can lead to quicker and more effective treatment.
If you're interested in understanding the difference between sterility and infertility, this article provides valuable insights into how they differ and what they mean for your fertility journey.
Getting Diagnosed for Secondary Infertility
If you suspect secondary infertility, it’s essential to see a healthcare provider. They'll likely run a few tests—like blood tests to check hormone levels, a semen analysis for men, and ultrasounds or other imaging studies to see if there are any structural issues [5].
Real Talk: Don’t put off getting checked out. The sooner you know what’s up, the sooner you can take steps to fix it.
What Are the Treatment Options?
If you’re dealing with secondary infertility, there are several ways to approach treatment depending on the underlying cause:
- Fertility Medications: These can help stimulate ovulation in women and improve sperm quality in men.
- Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART): Procedures like Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) or In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) can increase your chances.
- Surgery: If there are structural problems, such as blockages or fibroids, surgery might be necessary to clear things up.
Top Tip: A healthy lifestyle combined with the right medical treatments can make a big difference in your chances of success.
If you're unsure about whether you're experiencing signs of infertility, this guide will help you identify common symptoms that could indicate a fertility issue.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the causes of secondary infertility is a crucial step for any couple trying to conceive again. By recognizing these factors and taking proactive measures—whether that's seeing a doctor, making lifestyle changes, or exploring fertility support products—you can increase your chances of expanding your family. Conceive Plus offers a range of products to support fertility, giving you an extra boost on your journey.
FAQs
What is secondary infertility, and who does it affect?
Secondary infertility is when a couple cannot conceive or carry a pregnancy to term after already having one or more children. It affects both men and women and can result from various factors like age, lifestyle changes, or medical issues.
Can men experience secondary infertility?
Yes, men can also face secondary infertility due to reduced sperm count, poor sperm motility, hormonal imbalances, or lifestyle changes such as weight gain or smoking.
How does lifestyle impact secondary infertility?
Lifestyle factors like smoking, drinking, poor diet, and excess weight can negatively affect fertility in both men and women. Making healthier choices can improve your chances of conception.
When should we seek help for secondary infertility?
If you’re under 35 and have been trying to conceive for a year, or over 35 and trying for six months, it’s time to consult a specialist for guidance.
Citations
- Gnoth C, Godehardt E, Frank-Herrmann P, Friol K, Tigges J, Freundl G. Definition and prevalence of subfertility and infertility. Hum Reprod. Availability at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15802321/
- te Velde ER, Pearson PL. The variability of female reproductive ageing. Hum Reprod Update. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12099629/
- Witchel SF, Oberfield SE, Peña AS. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Pathophysiology, Presentation, and Treatment With Emphasis on Adolescent Girls. J Endocr Soc. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6676075/
- D'Hooghe TM, Debrock S, Hill JA, Meuleman C. Endometriosis and subfertility: is the relationship resolved? Semin Reprod Med. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12917793/
- Practice Committee of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Diagnostic evaluation of the infertile female: a committee opinion. Fertil Steril. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25936238/
