Why Am I Struggling to Conceive Again? Common Causes of Secondary Infertility
Having one child does not always mean that a second will come easily. Many couples are surprised and disappointed to find themselves struggling to conceive again. This is known as secondary infertility, and it is more common than people often realise.
Understanding why this happens can give you clarity and help you decide when to seek help.
What Is Secondary Infertility?
Secondary infertility is when someone who has already had a pregnancy is unable to conceive or carry another pregnancy to term after a period of trying. For women under 35, this period is usually defined as 12 months. For women over 35, it is 6 months.
The causes often overlap with those of primary infertility and can differ from person to person. The difference is that new factors, such as age, health changes or medical conditions, may have developed since the first pregnancy.
Lucy and David’s journey with baby Sophie shows how secondary infertility can affect couples who already have a child. After conceiving the first time, they later faced challenges but, with the right support and treatment, they were able to welcome another baby. Their story gives hope to others in a similar situation.
Common Causes of Secondary Infertility
Age-Related Fertility Decline
Women are born with all the eggs they will ever have. Over time, both the number and quality of those eggs fall. Fertility often begins to decline after the age of 35, and the chance of miscarriage also increases.
Men also experience age-related changes. Sperm count and quality can decrease gradually after 40, which can make conception less likely.
Hormonal Imbalances
Hormones control ovulation and reproductive function. Even if cycles were regular before, new imbalances can appear later in life. These can be due to new or previously undiagnosed medical or health conditions.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Can disrupt ovulation and cause irregular cycles.
- Thyroid conditions: Both underactive and overactive thyroids can impact fertility.
- Perimenopause: Some women begin to experience irregular cycles earlier than expected.
New Health Conditions
Health changes that appear after a first pregnancy can affect fertility. These may include:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Autoimmune conditions such as lupus.
- Significant weight changes can alter your hormone balance
Pregnancy or Birth Complications
A previous pregnancy or birth may leave lasting effects that make conception more difficult the next time.
- Caesarean sections can sometimes result in uterine scarring.
- Pelvic infections may block the fallopian tubes.
- Fibroids or polyps may grow or worsen after pregnancy.
Male Factor Fertility
Male infertility is a factor in around half of all cases. New issues can appear with time, such as:
- Lower sperm count or motility
- Varicoceles (swollen veins in the scrotum)
- Infections that affect sperm
- Hormonal changes
- Lifestyle habits such as smoking, taking drugs, or heavy alcohol use
Lifestyle Factors
Lifestyle changes after the first child can also play a role.
- Gaining or losing significant weight can disrupt hormone balance.
- Smoking reduces egg quality and sperm count.
- Excessive alcohol can affect ovulation and testosterone levels.
When Should You Seek Help?
If you are under 35 and have been trying for 12 months, or over 35 and have been trying for 6 months, it may be time to seek specialist advice. You should also consider early support if you have irregular cycles, a history of miscarriage, or known health issues.
A full fertility assessment can uncover the reason behind the difficulty. Tests may include blood work, ultrasound scans, and semen analysis. You can read more about the fertility tests available at Sims IVF.
The Emotional Impact
Secondary infertility can feel isolating. Some people feel guilty for wanting another child, while others struggle with frustration or sadness. These feelings are normal. Support is available through family, peer groups and professional services.
Sims IVF provides fertility counselling to help couples manage the emotional strain of treatment and uncertainty.
Contact Sims IVF for Advice
If you are struggling to conceive again, remember that you are not alone. Secondary infertility is common and has many possible causes, including age, hormones, health conditions, and lifestyle factors. With proper assessment and support, many couples go on to grow their families successfully.
Sims IVF offers fertility testing, tailored treatment plans, and counselling services to support you at every stage. Taking the step to seek advice could bring you closer to the family you hope for.
