Secondary infertility is a person or couple's inability to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term after having one or more successful pregnancies without assisted reproductive techniques. In other words, it occurs when a person or couple has trouble falling pregnant after having had one or more children.
For most people, secondary infertility is confusing and frustrating because the natural assumption is to be able to conceive again without any issues. At Manchester Fertility, we see many patients who experience secondary infertility, and although success rates with fertility treatment can vary (due to factors such as age, the quality of eggs or sperm, and the overall reproductive health of the individuals involved), we do have a very good success rate in this area.
What causes secondary infertility?
Secondary infertility can have various causes, including changes in reproductive health with age, underlying medical conditions, lifestyle factors, or changes in the individual's or couple's circumstances. Factors such as hormonal imbalances, ovulation disorders, pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, uterine abnormalities, male factor infertility, and other fertility-related conditions can contribute to secondary infertility.
Seeking help for secondary infertility
If an individual or couple has trouble achieving another pregnancy, it is advisable not to delay and to seek help from a HFEA-regulated fertility clinic, like Manchester Fertility, where you will have access to leading experts.
To help identify any underlying causes of secondary infertility, your fertility status will be thoroughly checked via a fertility review - a series of tests and scans to assess your (and your partner's) overall fertility health. Our specialist fertility consultants will then tell you your results in an in-depth consultation and provide personalised treatment plans, as well as answering any questions you may have.
What reproductive treatment options are available?
Some common treatments for secondary infertility include fertility medications, Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI). Your fertility consultant will determine the correct treatment based on your relationship status and the results of your fertility review.
How can Manchester Fertility help?
Dealing with secondary infertility can be emotionally challenging. Individuals or couples may experience feelings of confusion, guilt, frustration, or sadness.
However, it is important to remember that secondary infertility is a relatively common situation affecting many people and couples. Seeking support from specialist fertility experts and infertility support networks can provide valuable guidance, emotional support, and resources for those experiencing secondary infertility.
If you are having difficulty conceiving and are concerned you may be struggling with secondary fertility, reach out to our team, who are always happy to provide any support you need to get started on your journey to completing your family. You can contact the clinic directly at 0161 300 2737, or if you prefer, by booking a free, no-obligation, 1-2-1 discovery appointment via our website.
Last updated: 5th June 2023
