Infertility can be categorized into either: primary or secondary infertility. Primary infertility describes not being able to conceive usually after 1 year of regular unprotected intercourse. 

Those who experience secondary infertility, on the other hand, have trouble conceiving after successfully becoming pregnant at least once before. 

Unfortunately, couples experiencing secondary infertility tend to receive far less support from family & friends than couples who have primary infertility because the couple already has a child(ren). Although one may be genuinely thankful for their existing child but they can still long for more children. 

So here, let’s try to understand the basics of dealing with secondary infertility. 

Causes of Secondary Infertility:

  • Abnormal semen parameters which may be due to impaired sperm production, function or delivery in men
  • Fallopian tube damage, ovulation disorders, endometriosis and uterine pathologies in women
  • Complications related to previous pregnancy or surgery
  • Risk factor changes for one or both partners, such as age, use of certain medications
  • Unexplained reasons 

When to seek professional help for secondary infertility?

Many a times couples ignore the possibility of secondary infertility , as they’ve had a pregnancy in the past and they want to “keep on trying”. However, if you and your partner have been actively trying to conceive with unprotected intercourse for over a year or you are over 35 and have been actively trying for over 6 months, it is always better to seek expert opinion. If you are over 30 and have a history of  PID, menstrual problems, previous history of  miscarriage, or if you know that your partner has a low sperm count, do not wait one year; consult a fertility expert right away!

Management of Secondary Infertility:

The workup for secondary infertility is the same as for primary infertility. A thorough history with a detailed physical examination, and evaluation of the uterine, ovarian, fallopian tube, and sperm parameters are critical.

Your doctor can help you to make the right choice regarding further course of management. As with primary infertility, treatments for secondary infertility are successful in most cases.

The common treatment modalities include:

  • Medicines: includes hormonal treatment or drugs used for ovulation induction
  • Surgery: Hysteroscopy with laparoscopy may yield good results in cases of uterine fibroids, uterine scarring, or advanced endometriosis
  • ART (assisted reproductive techniques): These most commonly include either an IUI (intrauterine insemination) or IVF (in vitro fertilisation)

Secondary infertility can be surprising and stressful. Don't try to cope alone. Seek support from your partner, family and friends as you talk to your doctor about the forward course of your treatment. 

https://www.miraculumivf.com/blogs/infertility/secondary-infertility-what-you-can-do