Secondary infertility

If you’ve been trying for another baby for a while without success, you could be experiencing something called secondary infertility.

There are two types of infertility: primary and secondary. Primary infertility is when a couple who has not previously had a child has been trying for a year without success, while secondary infertility is when a woman or AFAB person  has had a child before but is now struggling to conceive again. 

It's normal to assume that you’ll get pregnant again if you've already had a child before, but there are a lot of factors that can make it more challenging the next time around — like age, for instance. If you’ve been trying to have another child for over a year without success, it’s a good idea to speak to your GP.

Struggling to conceive is overwhelming and confusing, especially when you’ve already had one or more children, but know you’re not alone. Secondary infertility affects around 5% of the population, and it’s the most common form of infertility. 

Plenty of options are available if you're having difficulty conceiving after pregnancy. Read on for information on secondary infertility causes and treatments. 

The same issues that cause primary infertility also cause secondary infertility. Conception is a pretty complex process. It relies not only on ovulation (the monthly process of releasing an egg from the ovaries) but also on successful fertilisation, and an embryo attaching to the uterine wall. Anything that affects those stages may result in infertility. Some causes of infertility include:

Sometimes, secondary infertility has no identifiable cause. This is known as unexplained secondary infertility, which affects around one in five couples. 

It might be a good idea to see your GP if you've been trying to get pregnant for a year without success. If you've had fertility issues in the past or a known condition, or if you're over 35 and have been trying for six months or more, it's especially important to seek medical advice.

Your healthcare provider will offer you advice and support, and if necessary, run some tests to see if there are any underlying issues.

Some of these tests include:  

• A semen analysis to check the volume and quality of sperm

• Blood tests to look at hormone levels

• Ovulation tests

• A transvaginal ultrasound

• An X-ray of the uterus and fallopian tubes.

 A fertility specialist will provide information about potential secondary infertility treatments.

If you're having trouble getting pregnant for the second time, know that there are treatments that can help. 

Solutions for secondary infertility include medication, surgery, artificial insemination, assisted reproductive technology (ART), and surrogacy. The type of treatment you receive will depend on the specific cause of your infertility. Sometimes, your doctor might recommend a combination of these methods to increase the chances of success. Below are some of the treatments your doctor or fertility specialist might recommend.

Trying to access fertility treatment on the NHS can be very frustrating. The waiting lists and eligibility criteria can vary across the UK, making it hard to know where to start. 

The best thing to do is chat with your GP or contact your local integrated care board (ICB). They can provide you with all the information you need about NHS-funded treatment in your area, and advise about your eligibility. 

When it comes to secondary infertility, however, your best bet is usually to seek private fertility treatment. 

If you're struggling with secondary infertility and aren't able to access NHS-funded treatment, get in touch for a free consultation with an Apricity advisor today. Apricity offers all-inclusive, transparent pricing for various fertility treatments and is the only clinic to offer IVF insurance plans with affordable instalments for fertility treatment.

Talk to your GP about counselling on the NHS, or if you'd prefer to go private, the British Infertility Counselling Association has a directory of accredited therapists.

Fertility Network UK also offers fertility groups (in person and online) and free webinars that will allow you to share your story and get advice from others struggling to conceive. 

If you're seeking fertility treatment, it's a good idea to ask clinics whether they offer mental health support (and whether they charge for it) before picking one. If you're undergoing treatment with Apricity, you'll receive free supportive counselling as part of your package, with access to your care team seven days a week through extended hours.

We understand that  secondary infertility can be a confusing, overwhelming diagnosis to receive. Just know that  different treatment options are available, and it’s absolutely possible to grow your family.