Secondary Infertility

Everything You Need To Know About Secondary Infertility

Infertility is said to exist when a pregnancy has not occurred after at least one year of engaging in unprotected coitus. There are two types of infertility, primary and secondary. In primary infertility, there have been no previous conceptions, while in secondary infertility, there has been a previous viable pregnancy but the couple is unable to conceive at present. In most cases, it is secondary infertility that is least addressed, and this can be distressing for couple who find lack of emotional support from others

Outsiders may even think this is not a problem at all. Even physicians may even downplay this problem because there have been no infertility problems in the past. Feelings of anger, jealousy and guilt may arise between couples and may eventually put strain on their marriage. Others may even criticize the absence of concrete loss, as the couple may already be taking care of an older child. Couples need to realize that in fertility, past success is not a guarantee to future success and this will be hard for them to accept. Surprisingly, only half of couples with secondary infertility seek medical help mainly due to emotional denial.

What causes secondary infertility?

As with primary infertility, secondary infertility causes are a multifactorial phenomenon with no specific cause unless medically established. Oftentimes, this is caused by age-related infertility, as most couples have their second or third children by their 30’s. Many women are unaware of this reality, especially when they have had children in their early years. The most fertile time for a woman to conceive is between 15-30 years, and after this, the eggs in a woman’s ovaries become less stable and less fertile. Likewise, the eggs also respond to its external surroundings. As middle-age approaches, the complex network of hormonal relationships becomes less stable and therefore, the woman becomes less fertile.

Approximately 40% of infertility problems come from the woman, and another 40% from males. In males, oligospermia or low sperm count and low sperm motility accounts for this. This condition may not have been present in the previous pregnancy but conditions such as chronic illness or excessive smoking and alcohol intake may eventually to decrease sperm count.

Untreated infection or tissue adhesions of previous surgical procedures may also be the culprit. These adhesions may prevent a zygote from implanting properly or a blockage may result from such.

For the most part, secondary infertility may be unexplained. Most doctors will tell you that previous pregnancy may have happened by luck, or maybe an existing medical condition exacerbated over time. This is not particularly comforting; especially since couples tend to question why is it that they were able to conceive before.

What are treatment options for secondary infertility?

This usually depends on the reason why you are having secondary infertility in the first place. If in case the underlying cause would be emdometriosis, for example, this should be addressed promptly. If infertility is caused by hormonal imbalances, the woman may be subjected to injections of hormones. If no specific secondary infertility treatment matches the situation or the cause for infertility, in vitro fertilization may be opted.

How can I cope with infertility and be a parent at the same time?

The existing child should not be burdened by the loss of an idealized family structure. It helps for him/her to know what his/her parents are going through to be able to verbalize feelings. As parents, the child’s need for love and care should not be compromised. Otherwise, the child may feel guilty and may even blame him/herself for the situation.

What are my options for overcoming secondary infertility?

Even at the peak of fertility, the woman’s chances of having pregnancy is 30%. If you are below 30 years old, it is best to make use of this fertile period and conceive as much as you want. Above this age, you should try to consult your doctor for recommended laboratory exams to monitor fertility. The most valuable test for women is that which measure follicle stimulating hormone in the blood. This test determines valuable evidence about her fertility. For men, sperm count analysis may be performed.

It also helps to maintain a sound mind and body in order to conceive again. Stress from work, not eating right, having no time for exercise and pleasure – all these come with extended responsibilities that occur as we age. It is very important to maintain fitness and make this your ultimate goal in order to ensure possible pregnancy.

The good news however, is that secondary infertility is more easily treated than primary infertility. If you act promptly and follow the prescribed treatment, you’re more likely to have another baby on the way.