Secondary infertility is defined as the experience of a couple being unable to conceive a child after having successfully conceived and given birth to one or more children in the past. It’s important to understand that this condition is distinct from primary infertility, which refers to the inability to conceive for the first time. The emotional and psychological impact of secondary infertility can be significant, as individuals may have already envisioned expanding their families and face unexpected challenges in doing so.
The underlying causes of secondary infertility are often similar to those of primary infertility and can affect either partner or both. In women, common factors include advancing age, which naturally leads to a decline in egg quality and quantity. Ovulation disorders, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can also re-emerge or develop after a previous pregnancy.
Conditions like endometriosis, where uterine-like tissue grows outside the uterus, and problems with the uterus itself, such as fibroids or scarring, or blockages in the fallopian tubes, can also contribute. In men, issues with sperm production, motility, or morphology can develop over time due to factors like age, lifestyle choices, or medical conditions. Low testosterone levels can also play a role.
Diagnosing secondary infertility typically involves a comprehensive evaluation, similar to the workup for primary infertility. This includes a thorough review of both partners’ medical histories, physical examinations, and a series of fertility tests.
- For women, these tests may include blood tests to assess hormone levels and ovulation, pelvic ultrasounds to examine the uterus and ovaries, and potentially a hysterosalpingogram (HSG) to check the fallopian tubes.
- For men, semen analysis is a crucial test to evaluate sperm count, motility, and morphology.
Treatment strategies for secondary infertility are tailored to the specific underlying cause identified and can range from lifestyle modifications and medications to more advanced assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilisation (IVF).
Read further in this article by the Cleveland Clinic.
