Secondary Infertility
Secondary infertility is defined as the inability to become pregnant, or to carry a pregnancy to term, following the birth of one or more biological children without the use of assisted reproductive technologies or fertility medications. The causes of secondary infertility are similar to the causes of primary infertility. However, the workup should focus on specific factors that have changed with you or your partner since having your first child. Some causes of secondary infertility are:
MATERNAL AGE
This is the most common reason for secondary infertility. Couples often delay trying for another child. The natural decline in ovarian function is the single most important factor in fertility.
PELVIC/TUBAL FACTORS
Medical conditions such as sexually transmitted diseases, endometriosis, Asherman’s Syndrome (intra-uterine adhesions from scarring after uterine surgery), or a history of a ruptured appendix can lead to pelvic adhesions that can cause infertility. In many cases, laparoscopic surgery is used to clean up the reproductive system and restore it to normal functioning.
MALE FACTOR
Changes in sperm quality or quantity can occur at any time. High fevers, infections, and even some medication can aid in the decline of sperm production. The physician may want to check these parameters through a semen analysis.
LIFE STYLE ISSUES
Factors such as weight can have an impact on fertility. Tobacco use by either cigarette smoking or chewing tobacco also impacts sperm and egg quality, and increases complications during a pregnancy.
RESOURCES:
Age and Fertility
Endometriosis
Male Factor
Smoking and Infertility
Weight and Infertility
MATERNAL AGE
This is the most common reason for secondary infertility. Couples often delay trying for another child. The natural decline in ovarian function is the single most important factor in fertility.
PELVIC/TUBAL FACTORS
Medical conditions such as sexually transmitted diseases, endometriosis, Asherman’s Syndrome (intra-uterine adhesions from scarring after uterine surgery), or a history of a ruptured appendix can lead to pelvic adhesions that can cause infertility. In many cases, laparoscopic surgery is used to clean up the reproductive system and restore it to normal functioning.
MALE FACTOR
Changes in sperm quality or quantity can occur at any time. High fevers, infections, and even some medication can aid in the decline of sperm production. The physician may want to check these parameters through a semen analysis.
LIFE STYLE ISSUES
Factors such as weight can have an impact on fertility. Tobacco use by either cigarette smoking or chewing tobacco also impacts sperm and egg quality, and increases complications during a pregnancy.
RESOURCES:
Age and Fertility
Endometriosis
Male Factor
Smoking and Infertility
Weight and Infertility