​Secondary Infertility: Unable to have another child

When you’re unable to have another child – feeling blessed yet cursed at the same time.

The inability to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term after previously giving birth to one or more biological children without the use of fertility treatments is called Secondary Infertility.

While primary infertility, struggling to conceive a first child, often dominates the discussion, secondary infertility is a common issue that affects many couples, but it tends to be even less talked about.

If you are experiencing secondary infertility, you are not alone, it affects millions of couples worldwide. Despite its prevalence, those dealing with secondary infertility often feel overlooked. Friends, family, and even healthcare providers might assume that because a couple already has one child, the emotional toll of infertility is less severe. However, the emotional and psychological impacts can be just as profound as with primary infertility. Many couples can feel guilt, frustration, and a sense of isolation, especially when surrounded by peers who are expanding their families with apparent ease.

If you are experiencing secondary infertility, you may benefit from counseling or joining support communities like Bumpy where they can share experiences and coping strategies with others facing similar challenges.

Common Causes of Secondary Infertility

Several factors can contribute to secondary infertility, often the same ones that cause primary infertility:

•  Age-Related Decline: Age is a significant factor, particularly for women. As a woman ages, her ovarian reserve, the number of quality eggs she has, decreases. This decline becomes more pronounced after age 35, making conception more difficult.

•  Changes in Health: Health conditions that have developed or worsened since the birth of a previous child can impact fertility. These could include ovulation issues, thyroid issues, uterine conditions (like fibroids or endometriosis) or issues with the fallopian tubes.

•  Male Factor Infertility: Changes in sperm count, motility, or morphology can occur in men over time due to lifestyle changes, aging or health issues like diabetes or obesity.

•  Weight Fluctuations: Significant changes in weight, whether gain or loss, can affect fertility in both men and women.

•  Lifestyle Factors: Increased stress, changes in diet, alcohol consumption, smoking, and reduced physical activity can negatively impact fertility.

•  Complications from Previous Pregnancies: Scar tissue or adhesions from a prior C-section or other pelvic surgeries can interfere with conception.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Secondary Infertility

If a couple has been trying to conceive for over a year (or six months if the woman is over 35) without success, they should consult a fertility specialist. The diagnostic process usually involves a thorough review of both partners' medical histories, including any changes since the last pregnancy. It will also involve a physical examination, blood tests to check hormone levels, ultrasounds to monitor ovulation, a semen analysis to evaluate the male partner's sperm count, motility, and morphology. It can also include ultrasounds to check for blockages or abnormalities in the reproductive organs and tests for thyroid function, prolactin levels, and other hormones that can affect fertility.

There are many treatment options depending on the underlying cause such as the following:

•  Lifestyle Modifications such as weight management, smoking cessation, reducing alcohol intake, and stress management can improve fertility outcomes.

•  Fertility Medications may be prescribed to stimulate ovulation.

•  Surgical interventions may be necessary to remove fibroids, treat endometriosis, or repair damaged fallopian tubes.

•  Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) like in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be recommended in cases where other treatments are not successful.

Secondary infertility is a common but often overlooked condition that can be just as challenging to those going through it as primary infertility. Understanding the causes, pursuing an accurate diagnosis, and exploring available treatment options are essential steps for couples facing this issue. However, secondary infertile couples' access to ART procedures is often restricted. In most European countries, secondary infertility lacks state healthcare coverage leaving affected couples to bear the costs of treatment, creating disparities in access to care. The lack of coverage underscores the need for broader recognition and support for those facing secondary infertility.

As a result, many couples may want to consider seeking fertility treatments abroad, where costs can be significantly lower. Traveling to countries with more affordable healthcare options can make treatment accessible and alleviate some of the financial burden, offering a viable solution for those facing secondary infertility.

To find a fertility clinic abroad that is best suited to your needs and budget you can use the free Bumpy clinic search tool which helps you easily find, compare and contact clinics. With the right medical support and emotional care, many couples can overcome secondary infertility and achieve their dream of expanding their families.