Secondary Infertility

Most people believe that if you have one child, then you are fertile and therefore can have another in the future. But this is not always true. Many couples struggle to have a second child and this is defined as Secondary Infertility. It is very common and accounts for around 60% of infertility cases.

What is Secondary Infertility?
Secondary infertility is defined as the inability to conceive another child successfully and naturally. When a childless couple is unable to conceive, they tend to seek treatment. However, couples who already have a child and who are affected by secondary infertility are much less likely to do so because of the misconception that once you are fertile you will always be fertile. Some medical professionals even tell their patients to just keep trying and that eventually it will happen. While this may work for some, for many others advice like this only adds to the frustration and heartache experienced by a couple having fertility problems.

Why does it happen?
Reasons for secondary infertility tend to be the same as reasons for primary infertility. Since the last time you were pregnant, you or your husband may have gained some weight, had an infection, or started eating fewer healthy foods. These small variances in your life can affect your reproductive health. Additionally, if it has been a few years since you last had a child, the quality of your eggs may have begun decreasing, or your husband's sperm has undergone some changes. Abnormalities with sperm and ejaculate are frequently cited as causes of secondary infertility. Other common explanations for secondary infertility include:

• Ovulation problems
• Endometriosis
• Pelvic adhesions and tubal obstruction
• Uterine fibroids or polyps

It is always a good idea to seek out a fertility expert if you have troubles conceiving. Make an appointment with our doctors, especially if you are over 35 because your chances of conception decrease with age, and finding out sooner about your fertility problem is a wise decision.  Click here to request an appointment with one of our doctors to see how we can help you conceive.