Secondary infertility is diagnosed when: Women under 35 are unable to conceive after a year of unprotected intercourse. Women 35 or older are unable to conceive after six months of trying.
Diagnosing Secondary Infertility
At Sakalli IVF, our comprehensive evaluation aims to uncover the underlying cause of secondary infertility. This process includes:
Medical History and Lifestyle Review
Assessing previous pregnancies, medical conditions, and lifestyle changes.
Comprehensive Testing
For Women Hormonal blood tests, transvaginal ultrasounds, and hysterosalpingograms (HSG) to check ovarian reserve, ovulation, and uterine health.
For Men Semen analysis to evaluate sperm count, motility, and morphology.
Advanced Diagnostic Procedures
Genetic testing to identify any chromosomal abnormalities. Laparoscopy or hysteroscopy for further examination of the reproductive organs.
Common Causes of Secondary Infertility
For Women
Aging: Women’s fertility naturally declines with age. The quantity and quality of eggs diminish, reducing the chances of conception. For women over 40, the probability of pregnancy success per cycle falls below 5%.
Ovulation Disorders: Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid dysfunction, or primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) can disrupt ovulation. Hormonal changes caused by breastfeeding may also temporarily halt ovulation.
Blocked Fallopian Tubes: Blockages can prevent fertilization or embryo implantation and are often caused by pelvic infections, ectopic pregnancies, or surgical complications.
Uterine Issues: Uterine fibroids, polyps, or scarring from previous C-sections or dilation and curettage (D&C) procedures can hinder implantation or cause pregnancy loss. Endometriosis can lead to inflammation and scar tissue, affecting egg quality and implantation.
Lifestyle Factors: Changes in weight, stress levels, or habits such as smoking and alcohol consumption can impact fertility.
For Men
Sperm Quality: Aging, testicular injuries, or lifestyle factors can reduce sperm count and motility.
Testicular Varicocele: This condition involves swollen veins in the scrotum, which can impair sperm production.
Hormonal Imbalances: Low testosterone levels or conditions affecting the prostate may lead to reduced sperm quality.
Lifestyle and Medications: Factors such as weight gain, smoking, and certain medications can adversely affect fertility.
Treatment Options for Secondary Infertility
At Sakalli IVF, we provide a range of evidence-based treatments to address secondary infertility. Options include:
Lifestyle Modifications
Weight management, stress reduction, and improved nutrition to enhance fertility naturally.
Fertility Medications
Ovulation-inducing medications like clomiphene (Clomid) or letrozole (Femara). Hormonal treatments to regulate ovulation and improve egg quality.
Surgical Interventions
Minimally invasive procedures to remove fibroids, polyps, or scar tissue. Clearing fallopian tube blockages or addressing male conditions like varicoceles.
Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART)
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
Third-Party Reproductive Assistance
Donor eggs, sperm, or embryos for couples requiring additional support.
Success Stories at Sakalli IVF
One of our patients, a couple who struggled with secondary infertility for three years, shared their experience:
Parents
“Sakalli IVF gave us hope when we felt lost. After several treatments, we welcomed our second child. The team’s expertise, care, and dedication made all the difference.”
FAQs
Your body and circumstances can change after your first pregnancy. Factors like age-related fertility decline, hormonal imbalances, or complications from your previous delivery (e.g., C-section scarring) can impact your ability to conceive again. Lifestyle changes like stress, weight gain, or new medical conditions can also play a role.
Yes, it’s more common than many realize. About 10-20% of couples face secondary infertility. Despite having no issues with their first pregnancy, unexpected challenges in conceiving again can arise due to age, health changes, or new reproductive issues.
Yes, complications like C-section scars, infections, or injuries to the uterus or fallopian tubes during delivery can impact future fertility. Even a smooth pregnancy may lead to changes in hormones or the reproductive system that could make conception more challenging.
Yes, breastfeeding can suppress ovulation in some women due to hormonal changes, particularly elevated prolactin levels. This is temporary, and once breastfeeding is reduced or stopped, regular cycles and fertility often return.
Yes, fertility is influenced by aging, lifestyle changes, and health conditions. Women’s egg quality naturally declines with age, while factors like stress, weight changes, or exposure to toxins can reduce sperm quality in men.
Absolutely. Secondary infertility can occur even if your first child was conceived using IVF or other assisted reproductive technologies. Factors such as age, changes in your reproductive health, or lifestyle shifts can impact your ability to conceive again.
If you’ve been trying for over 12 months (or 6 months if you’re over 35) without success, both partners should undergo testing. Issues like ovulation disorders, blocked fallopian tubes, or reduced sperm quality may be at play. Testing helps pinpoint the problem and guide treatment.
Success depends on factors like age, health, and the treatment method. For example, IVF offers success rates of 40-50% per cycle for women under 35, and addressing underlying causes can further improve outcomes. Early intervention is key.
Yes, stress can disrupt hormone levels, leading to irregular ovulation in women and reduced sperm quality in men. Managing stress through relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or counseling can help improve fertility.
Be age-appropriate and honest. Explain that growing your family can take time and that you’re working together as a family. This approach can help your child feel included and supported. If needed, counseling or support groups can guide these conversations.
