Secondary Infertility: What Is It?

Although most women have heard of infertility, few women understand what secondary infertility is. At Diana Health, we want to educate you about a wide range of women’s health-related topics so that whether you or someone you know is going through secondary infertility, or if you just want to learn more, you will be equipped with knowledge. We especially want you to understand the significant impact that secondary infertility can have on a woman and her family’s mental and emotional well-being. We are here for you. 

What is secondary infertility? 

Secondary infertility is when a woman has become pregnant with and delivered a baby, without the use of fertility treatments, then is unable to get pregnant or carry a baby to full term when she tries for a second baby.

What causes secondary infertility? 

Although there are a variety of causes, many are the same or similar to causes of infertility for any woman. Some potential causes of secondary fertility are listed below:

• Age: As women age, fertility naturally declines, thus making it more challenging to conceive as a woman gets older
• Complications from a past pregnancy: Sometimes when women have complications during a past pregnancy, such as scar tissue from a previous cesarean section, conceiving may be difficult
• Medical conditions: As women age, they are more likely to develop medical conditions that may negatively impact fertility. These conditions may be due to medications, changes in their anatomy, scar tissue (e.g. with endometriosis), or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) 
• Lifestyle factors: If a woman starts using tobacco, becomes an unhealthy weight, exercises excessively, or is under severe stress, it may become more difficult for her to conceive, even if she had a previous pregnancy without problems
• Changes in sexual function or reproductive health: If a woman’s partner changes or if a male partner’s sperm quality or concentration changes, this can impact fertility. Also, if interest in sexual activity or function changes in a negative way, this can lead to secondary infertility

How is secondary infertility treated? 

The treatment for secondary infertility depends on the underlying cause of the secondary infertility. In many ways, it is the same treatment whether or not it is primary or secondary infertility. Treatment falls into a few main categories:

• Medication: Oral and/or injected medications such as Clomid may be used to help with ovulation
• Surgery: Surgery may be used to treat fallopian tube blockages or address other anatomical causes of secondary infertility
• Assisted reproductive technology: Intrauterine insemination and/or in vitro fertilization may be used for women with secondary infertility
• Lifestyle change: if a woman’s secondary infertility is thought to be due to lifestyle, she may be asked to make lifestyle changes (for example if a woman is at an unhealthy weight), using tobacco, decreasing excessive stress, etc. 

How can secondary infertility impact mental health? 

Infertility, whether primary or secondary, can be very difficult for a woman’s mental health, as well as the mental health of her family. Infertility often comes with significant uncertainty and waiting and may lead to guilt, frustration, anxiety, and depression. It can be especially challenging emotionally, as sometimes women blame themselves for their secondary infertility. At Diana Health, we want you to know that you are not to blame and that we are here to support your mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing. If you’re struggling with this or know someone who is, reach out to us, your primary care provider, or a mental health provider.

At Diana Health, we’re here to support women at every stage of their health journey. If you or someone you know is struggling with secondary infertility, reach out to us at Diana Health. We would be happy to discuss your options during one of our Preconception Counseling sessions. We can also connect you with one of our mental health therapists if you need assistance with your mental health. We are here for you every step of the way!