Causes of Secondary Infertility I Fertility Clinic Near Me

Introduction

When couples encounter difficulties conceiving after having their first child, they might be facing a condition known as secondary infertility. While primary subfertility often receives more attention, studies suggest that about one-third of infertility cases are attributed to secondary infertility. According to the National Centre of Health Statistics, secondary infertility affects millions of parents worldwide. Both men and women can experience secondary infertility, and it can be puzzling and emotionally challenging for couples because they have successfully conceived before. Seeking expert help, such as from Golden Gate Fertility Centre, a leading fertility clinic in Malaysia, can offer significant relief and understanding of the underlying causes. This proactive approach can greatly enhance the chances of conceiving again. 

What is Secondary Infertility? 

Secondary infertility refers to the difficulty in conceiving or carrying a pregnancy to term after previously giving birth to one or more children without complications (Chandra C. And Shenoy, M.D. 2022). Unlike primary subfertility, where couples have never been able to conceive before, secondary infertility occurs after one or more successful pregnancies. Despite past successes, couples facing secondary infertility encounter challenges in achieving another pregnancy. 

Signs of Secondary Infertility  

Secondary infertility can manifest through various signs and symptoms, which often resemble those of primary infertility. Recognizing these signs is crucial for seeking timely medical advice and treatment. Here are some of the common signs: 

Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Changes in the regularity, duration, or heaviness of menstrual periods can indicate hormonal imbalances or other reproductive issues. 

Inability to Conceive: The most evident sign of secondary infertility is the inability to conceive after a year of trying for those under the age of 35, or after six months for those 35 and older. 

Miscarriages: Experiencing multiple miscarriages can also be a sign of secondary infertility, pointing to potential genetic or hereditary disease, hormonal, or uterine issues. 

Changes in Sexual Function: Issues such as erectile dysfunction in men or painful intercourse in women can affect fertility and may develop after a previously successful pregnancy. This can be due to new medical condition developing or progression of disease. 

Age-related Factors: As couples age, the quality of eggs and sperm decline, which can significantly impact the ability to conceive. 

If you notice any of these signs and have had difficulty conceiving after previously having a child, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider who specializes in fertility for evaluation and possible treatment. 

Common Causes of Secondary Infertility 

Secondary infertility can be caused by a variety of factors that may affect either partner’s reproductive health. These causes often overlap with those of primary infertility but occur after a couple has already had a child. Here are some of the common causes: 

Age-Related Changes: Fertility declines with age for both men and women. For women, egg quality and quantity decrease significantly after the age of 35. Men also experience a decline in sperm quality and motility as they age. Time is the most important factor here. It is advisable to seek medical attention and get treatment as soon as possible. 

Reproductive Health Issues: Conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can develop or worsen over time and affect fertility. 

Complications from Previous Pregnancy or Surgery: Scarring or other complications from a previous delivery or surgical procedure, such as a C-section, can affect fertility (Ahamed F et al., 2023).  

Lifestyle Factors: Weight gain or loss, stress, smoking, and alcohol use can all negatively impact fertility. Changes in lifestyle since the last pregnancy might contribute to difficulties in conceiving. 

Changes in Sperm Quality: Sperm production weakens over time due to factors like medications, health problems, toxins, and aging. This leads to a lower sperm count and sperm quality, reducing the chances of sperm reaching the egg. Even lifestyle choices can affect sperm count and movement. 

Identifying and addressing these factors with the help of healthcare professionals specializing in fertility can be crucial in overcoming secondary infertility. The risk factors of secondary infertility are mostly modifiable and can be prevented by treatment and/or management plan (Fatimah et al. 2024). 

What can Golden Gate Fertility Centre Offer? 

Upon seeking assistance from the Golden Gate Fertility Centre, a thorough evaluation will be conducted to identify potential causes of secondary infertility. There are a comprehensive range of TCM fertility services, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, and nutritional guidance, which sets it apart as a leader in the field. With a team of highly experienced practitioners, Golden Gate Fertility has consistently achieved high success rates in helping couples conceive naturally or alongside assisted reproductive technologies. The top three services offered by Golden Gate are fertility treatment, fertility acupuncture, and modern chinese integrative medicine for recurrent IVF failure. 

By recognizing the value in both methodologies, the Centre provides personalized treatment plans that cater to the specific needs and preferences of each couple. 

Integrated Care: Combining the best of TCM and Western medicine for a holistic and targeted approach to fertility challenges. 

Expert Team: A multidisciplinary team of specialists in both TCM and Western reproductive medicine ensures well-rounded care. 

Cutting-Edge Facilities: State-of-the-art technologies and facilities support the latest in fertility treatments and diagnostics. 

Patient-Centered Philosophy: A commitment to compassionate, individualized care supports couples emotionally and physically throughout their fertility journey.