Having a child is the most beautiful moment of a couple’s life. We dream of heaven from the period of conceiving a life inside us, to bring it to the world. When a couple has already previously conceived naturally, they cannot think that they could ever face challenges having their next happiness. This is a serious concern that is often overlooked and puts the couple in a stressful situation. The condition is known as secondary infertility. 

In this blog, we are going to get into the causes and options for treating secondary infertility. But before that, let’s understand what secondary infertility really is. 

So, secondary infertility is the inability to get pregnant after giving birth to the first child due to many reasons. 

Read on the blog to get more information! 

The Causes of Secondary Infertility

In Women:

• Advanced Age (35 years or older): Fertility in women typically begins to decline after the age of 30, with a more significant decrease after 35.
• Endometriosis: A condition where uterine-like tissue grows outside the uterus, potentially impairing fertility by affecting the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or the uterus itself.
• Blocked Fallopian Tubes: Obstruction of the fallopian tubes, often caused by pelvic infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhea, can hinder the passage of eggs from the ovaries to the uterus.
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A hormonal disorder characterized by elevated levels of androgens (male hormones), which can disrupt ovulation and menstrual cycles.
• Significant Weight Gain: Excessive weight gain may lead to ovarian dysfunction, impacting fertility.

In Men:

• Advanced Age (40 years or older): A decline in semen quality is commonly observed post-40 years of age.
• Reduced Testosterone Levels: Essential for sperm production, testosterone levels can decrease due to aging or genital injuries.
• Prostatic Enlargement: Enlargement of the prostate gland can adversely affect sperm count and the process of ejaculation.
• Post-Prostatectomy Complications: Surgical removal of the prostate, often for cancer treatment, can lead to retrograde ejaculation, where sperm flows backward.
• Late-Onset Hypogonadism: This condition is characterized by a diminished secretion of male hormones, affecting fertility.
• Excessive Weight Gain: There is a notable increase in infertility risk correlating with weight gain; specifically, a 10% increase in infertility risk for every 20 pounds of weight gained.

Treatment Options Available

The treatment your doctor suggests depends on what’s causing the issue.

Medications to Kickstart Ovulation: For those who aren’t ovulating regularly, doctors often prescribe medications like clomiphene (Clomid) or letrozole. Think of these as little helpers to get the ovulation process back on track.

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) for a Boost: IUI is a technique where sperm is placed directly into the uterus, ramping up the chances of fertilization. And if needed, sperm donors can be an option here too.

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) – A High-Tech Helper: IVF is a bit more complex. It involves taking eggs right from the ovaries, then mixing them with sperm in a lab to start the fertilization process. It’s like giving nature a scientific helping hand.

Surgical Solutions for Uterine Issues: Sometimes, there’s a need to go in and fix things directly. This could mean surgery to remove scar tissue, polyps, or fibroids in the uterus, clearing the way for a smoother fertility journey.

Correcting Male Infertility Surgically: When it comes to men, fixing a varicocele in the testicles can sometimes be the key. It’s a surgical procedure and stands as one of the most correctable causes of male infertility.

Remember, the treatment you need depends on secondary infertility causes, and your doctor will help you figure that out.

9M Hospital: Your Partner in Emotional Well-Being!

Dealing with secondary infertility can be really tough emotionally. It’s common for people to feel a mix of emotions like anger, sadness, guilt, and loneliness while dealing with such medical issues. The journey is often made more difficult when friends and family don’t fully understand, sometimes suggesting that you should simply be happy with the child you already have. This lack of understanding can intensify feelings of isolation, a sentiment that is further compounded if your doctors don’t seem empathetic.

However, the specialist doctors at 9M Hospital can significantly ease your journey. With the best possible treatment options and needed emotional support, 9M Hospitals gives you a better understanding of your situation and a strength to fight with the condition. Our team not just treat your medical condition, but lives this journey with you. 

Conclusion

While secondary infertility is a challenging and delicate subject, many people can overcome it with the right support and guidance. If you understand the causes, research treatment options, and take care of your mental health, you can face this challenging journey with hope and resilience.

Treating secondary infertility at 9M Hospital is a new hope for people. Using a multidisciplinary approach that takes into account the condition’s psychological and physical components, we provide the best care. The goal of the best pregnancy hospital is to support couples as they journey toward parenthood with our knowledgeable staff, cutting-edge therapies, and encouraging community.