Author: Elizabeth Shrader, RN, MSN, WHNP-BC

What is “secondary infertility?”

“Secondary infertility” is a term used by the medical community to describe infertility that occurs in couples that have successfully conceived and carried to term in the past. If you’re one of the thousands of couples in Arizona who have had a successful pregnancy in the past – but are struggling now with a second, third, or even fourth pregnancy – you’re not alone.

At Arizona Associates for Women’s Health, I work with women dealing with all kinds of fertility issues, specializing in intrauterine inseminations (IUI), sonohysterograms (SHG), ultrasounds, and other tests and procedures related to fertility care. It’s not uncommon for me to see patients who struggle with secondary infertility.

What are the causes of secondary infertility?

Secondary infertility can be caused by many of the same factors that cause infertility in women, men and couples who have already had a baby. These may include:

• Low sperm count
• Damage to fallopian tubes
• Endometriosis
• Ovulatory problems

Additionally, some women may have developed complications from prior pregnancies. Natural factors, such as age, and changes in weight, hormonal balance, and medication use can also cause secondary infertility.

Secondary Infertility: Getting Help

If you have been having sex without the use of any contraceptive for at least 12 months (under age 35), 6 months (age 35-40), or 3 months (over age 40), and have not become pregnant, then you may wish to see a fertility specialist in Mesa or Tempe through Arizona Associates for Women’s Health. During your appointment, we may discuss prior pregnancies, as well as (for both men and women) changes in weight or BMI, sleep, stress, and use of caffeine, alcohol, drugs, or tobacco.

Secondary Infertility: See a Mesa/Tempe Fertility Specialist

Have you been pregnant before, but are having difficulty becoming pregnant a second or third time? At Arizona Associates for Women’s Health, a fertility specialist may be able to help with secondary infertility. Take this brief online questionnaire to have someone from our offices contact you. Or, schedule an appointment online or by calling 480-257-2700.

Please consult with your physician before undertaking any form of medical treatment or adopting any exercise program or dietary guidelines.