Secondary Infertility: When Baby #2 Doesn't Come Easy

Struggling to conceive again after a successful pregnancy can be both surprising and frustrating. Many couples find themselves unprepared for the challenges of secondary infertility. This condition can stem from various factors affecting either or both partners, making it difficult to pinpoint the exact cause without thorough evaluation. 

In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatments for secondary infertility, providing you with essential information and actionable steps. Whether you are experiencing hormonal imbalances, age-related declines, or lifestyle factors, understanding these aspects is crucial. 

Read on to discover how you can navigate this challenging journey and improve your chances of conception.

Causes of secondary infertility

In females

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

  • This hormonal disorder can lead to irregular ovulation and menstrual cycles, making conception more difficult.

• Endometriosis

  • Tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, potentially causing inflammation, scarring, and anatomical changes that hinder fertility.

• Age-related factors 

  • As women age, particularly after 35, fertility naturally declines due to a decrease in the number and quality of eggs.

• Uterine or fallopian tube issues

  • Conditions such as blocked fallopian tubes, uterine fibroids, or scarring from previous surgeries can impede the passage or implantation of eggs.

• Lifestyle factors

  • Excessive weight gain, smoking, and alcohol consumption can negatively impact ovulation and overall reproductive health.

In males

• Hormonal imbalances

  • Reduced testosterone levels can affect sperm production and quality.

• Testicular conditions

  • Issues like varicocele and vein enlargement in the scrotum can lead to low sperm production.

• Age-related decline 

  • After age 40, semen quality often declines, affecting fertility.

• Lifestyle factors

  • Similar to females, factors like weight gain, smoking, and excessive alcohol use can impact male fertility.

Symptoms of secondary infertility

The primary symptom of secondary infertility is the inability to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term after having previously given birth without the use of fertility treatments. This condition usually does not present any obvious symptoms beyond the difficulty in achieving another pregnancy.

For women, symptoms might include irregular or absent menstrual periods, which can indicate issues such as PCOS or other ovulation disorders. 

In men, changes in erectile or ejaculatory function may indicate fertility issues. 

Diagnosing secondary infertility

Secondary infertility is diagnosed through a comprehensive evaluation conducted by a fertility specialist. The process typically involves several steps:

• Medical history review 

  • The specialist will begin by reviewing the medical history of both partners, including past pregnancies, any history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), surgeries, and any significant health changes since the last pregnancy.

• Lifestyle and medication assessment 

  • The evaluation will also consider lifestyle habits such as alcohol and tobacco use, as well as any medications currently being taken, which could impact fertility.

• Physical and pelvic exams

  • A physical examination, including a pelvic exam for women, may be conducted to assess reproductive health.

• Hormonal testing

  • Blood tests are used to check hormone levels in both partners. For women, this often includes tests for oestrogen, progesterone, and other hormones related to ovulation.

• Semen analysis

  • For men, a semen analysis is performed to evaluate sperm count, motility, and morphology, which are critical factors in male fertility.

• Imaging tests

  • Women may undergo imaging tests such as ultrasound or hysterosalpingography (HSG) to examine the uterus and fallopian tubes for any structural abnormalities or blockages.

• Additional diagnostic procedures

  • In some cases, further diagnostic procedures like laparoscopy may be recommended to inspect the pelvic organs for conditions such as endometriosis or scarring.

Book your appointment and get diagnosed at Thomson Medical Centre today.

Treatment options for secondary infertility

Treating secondary infertility involves addressing the underlying causes, which can vary between individuals. Here are some common treatment options:

• Medications 

  • Drugs like Clomid or letrozole can stimulate ovulation in women with ovulation problems. These medications help regulate the menstrual cycle and promote the release of eggs.

• Surgery

  • Surgical procedures can address structural issues that contribute to infertility.

  • For women, this might include removing uterine fibroids, polyps, or scar tissue.

  • In men, surgery can repair conditions like varicocele, which affects sperm quality.

• Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

  • This procedure involves placing sperm directly into a woman's uterus to facilitate fertilisation. It is often used when there are issues with sperm count or quality, or cervical mucus problems.

• In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)

  • IVF involves retrieving eggs from the ovaries, fertilising them with sperm in a laboratory, and then transferring the resulting embryos into the uterus. This is a common option for various causes of infertility.

• Lifestyle changes 

  • Addressing lifestyle factors such as weight management, smoking cessation, and reducing alcohol intake can improve fertility. These changes can enhance overall reproductive health and increase the chances of conception.

• Advanced reproductive technologies 

  • In cases of male infertility, techniques like testicular sperm extraction (TESE) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) may be used in conjunction with IVF to improve outcomes.

Want to find out more about treatments for secondary infertility? Enquire Now.

Conclusion

Secondary infertility can be a challenging and unexpected condition for couples who have previously conceived without issues. Understanding the various causes and seeking appropriate medical evaluation is crucial. 

By addressing underlying issues and considering various treatment options, many couples can improve their chances of conception. Remember, if you ever feel overwhelmed, seeking professional help from a fertility specialist can provide the support and guidance needed to navigate this journey with compassion and care.