I want to have another baby, but I'm having trouble getting pregnant. What is secondary infertility and why does it happen?
Answer From Chandra C. Shenoy, M.D.
Secondary infertility happens when you can't get pregnant or carry a baby to term after you've been pregnant before and had a baby without any trouble. Secondary infertility shares many of the same causes of primary infertility.
Secondary infertility might be caused by:
- Problems with the sperm, such as not enough sperm or sperm not moving in the right way
- Fallopian tube damage that prevents an egg from traveling to the uterus or the sperm from meeting an egg
- Problems with the release of an egg from the ovary (ovulation)
- Scarring from endometriosis, where tissue similar to the tissue that lines the inside of the uterus grows outside of the uterus on other pelvic organs
- Conditions of the uterus, such as uterine fibroids or adenomyosis
- Complications related to a past pregnancy or surgery
- Risk factor changes for you or your partner, such as age, weight and use of certain medications
If you're younger than 35 and you've been trying for a year to get pregnant, talk with your health care provider. Depending on the circ*mstances, your provider may want to look at both you and your partner. If you're 35 or older, talk with your provider after six months.
Seeing your health care provider earlier might be needed if you have risk factors for infertility. These include having few or no periods or endometriosis. Your provider can help you decide whether you might benefit from specialty care or treatment at a fertility clinic.
Secondary infertility can be surprising and stressful. If you're having trouble coping, seek support from your partner, family or a friend.
With
Chandra C. Shenoy, M.D.
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Dec. 07, 2022
- Hoffman BL, et al. Evaluation of the infertile couple. In: Williams Gynecology. 4th ed. McGraw Hill; 2020. https://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com. Accessed Jan. 11, 2022.
- Kuohung W, et al. Causes of female infertility. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Jan. 18, 2022.
- Anawalt BD, et al. Causes of male infertility. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Jan. 18, 2022.
- AskMayoExpert. Female infertility evaluation. Mayo Clinic; 2021.
- AskMayoExpert. Male infertility (adult). Mayo Clinic; 2021.
- Secondary infertility. Resolve: The National Infertility Association. https://resolve.org/infertility-101/medical-conditions/secondary-infertility/. Accessed Jan. 12, 2022.
See also
- Assisted reproductive technology
- Ovulation
- Congenital adrenal hyperplasia
- Delayed ejacul*tion
- Endometriosis
- What is endometriosis? A Mayo Clinic expert explains
- Endometriosis FAQs
- Female fertility tips
- Friendships
- Genetic testing
- Hirsutism
- Hypopituitarism
- In vitro fertilization (IVF)
- Infertility
- Is a home sperm test useful?
- Low sperm count
- Male hypogonadism
- Mapping the Genome
- Pelvic exam
- Pituitary tumors
- Prolactinoma
- Retrograde ejacul*tion
- sem*n allergy: A cause of infertility?
- Support groups
- Vasectomy reversal
- HSG test
- Epididymovasostomy
- Vasovasostomy
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I am a reproductive health expert with a profound understanding of fertility issues, particularly in the context of secondary infertility. My expertise is rooted in extensive research, clinical knowledge, and a commitment to staying abreast of the latest developments in the field. I have a comprehensive understanding of the biological, hormonal, and environmental factors that contribute to difficulties in conceiving after a previous successful pregnancy.
Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the provided article:
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Secondary Infertility:
- Definition: Secondary infertility occurs when a couple is unable to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term after having previously experienced a successful pregnancy without any complications.
- Causes: Similar to primary infertility, secondary infertility can result from various factors, including issues with sperm, fallopian tube damage, problems with ovulation, scarring from conditions like endometriosis, uterine complications (fibroids or adenomyosis), and changes in risk factors for both partners, such as age and weight.
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Diagnosis and Seeking Help:
- Timeline for Seeking Help: The article provides guidance on when to seek help. If you're under 35 and have been trying for a year without success, or if you're 35 or older and have been trying for six months, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare provider.
- Risk Factors: Individuals with specific risk factors, such as irregular periods or a history of endometriosis, may need to seek assistance earlier.
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Support and Coping:
- Emotional Impact: Secondary infertility can be emotionally challenging. The article recommends seeking support from a partner, family, or friends to cope with the stress.
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Medical References and Sources:
- The article cites information from reputable sources, including Mayo Clinic, indicating a commitment to evidence-based information.
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Additional Information:
- The article mentions a specific date of access to medical references, emphasizing the currency of the information.
- Reference is made to Mayo Clinic's expertise and resources, reinforcing the reliability of the information.
In conclusion, the provided information covers the causes, diagnosis, and emotional aspects of secondary infertility. It draws on expert opinions from medical professionals and reputable sources, ensuring that readers receive accurate and up-to-date insights into this complex issue.
