It is estimated that approximately 10-17% of all couples experience either primary or secondary infertility or sub-fertility at some stage during their fertile years. Around 40% of primary or secondary infertility is related to male factors, 30% to ovulation dysfunction & 20% to female reproductive conditions such as blocked fallopian tubes, fibroids & endometriosis. Frequently both male & female factors are involved. Approximately 10% of cases are diagnosed as unexplained infertility.
Often the assumption is that if you have easily concieved a child you will have no problem with subsequent conception attempts. However, this is not always the case as the body can change and new health issues can arise & sperm & egg quality can decline
The Emotional Aspect Of Secondary Infertility
Firstly, if you are experiencing difficulties in having more children, I just want to acknowledge that any feelings you may have of anger, loss, grief, jealousy, resentment, isolation or despair are just as valid as they are for a women who has not been able to conceive at all. However, you may receive less support & understanding as often the message is 'be grateful for the child or children you already have."
Frequently, the women I see with secondary infertility issues say something like "don't get me wrong I am very grateful for the child I have & I know I am lucky but........" This is because they have somehow been made to feel guilty about their desire to have another child when others struggle to have one at all. It's okay to long for another child, you are not being selfish & it is natural to feel the loss & pain of being unable to conceive another child. Very often too there is a strong desire to provide a sibling for your child, especially if you experienced close relationships with your sibling[s] when growing up.
Causes Of Secondary Infertility
The causes of secondary infertility are exactly the same as those of primary infertility. Therefore, what I will focus on in this article are the factors that I commonly see change after the birth of a child that can create a state of sub-fertility:
