Support for Secondary Infertility

Secondary infertility is more common than most people realize. And while it may come as a surprise, it’s something we can explore and address together, with compassion and care tailored to where you are now.

What Is Secondary Infertility?

Secondary infertility is defined as the inability to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term after previously having a child—either through pregnancy or assisted reproductive care. It affects nearly 11% of people hoping to grow their family.*

For many individuals and couples, the first pregnancy may have come easily, which makes the current struggle feel unexpected and even a little disheartening. But fertility can change over time, and so can the factors that influence it. Below are some of the most common contributors, but this is not an exhaustive list:

Changes in Egg or Sperm Quality

Egg and sperm quality naturally decline with age. For individuals with ovaries, the number and genetic quality of eggs decrease—especially in your late 30s and 40s. Sperm quality can also be affected by age, health conditions, and environmental exposures. Over time, chromosomal issues can become more common, making conception and healthy pregnancy more difficult.

Hormonal Shifts and Medical Conditions

Hormonal imbalances—such as reduced testosterone, thyroid disorders, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)—can impact ovulation or sperm production. Autoimmune diseases, diabetes, and certain genetic conditions may also interfere with fertility over time. These issues often develop gradually and may not have been present during your previous pregnancy.

Structural Issues and Reproductive Complications

Secondary infertility may result from complications related to prior pregnancies or surgeries, such as C-sections, Dilation and Curettage (D&C) procedures, or myomectomies (a surgical procedure used to remove uterine fibroids).

Scarring or blockages in the uterus or fallopian tubes can also occur due to infections (like chlamydia or pelvic inflammatory disease), endometriosis, or uterine fibroids. These physical changes may prevent successful fertilization or implantation.

Lifestyle and Environmental Factors

Fertility can also be influenced by lifestyle. A significant change in weight—either gain or loss—or a BMI outside the healthy range may disrupt normal ovulation or sperm function. Smoking, alcohol use, certain medications, and exposure to environmental toxins (such as pesticides or industrial chemicals) can reduce sperm count and impair egg or sperm function. Even using lubricants that are toxic to sperm can have an impact.

New Partner or Changed Circumstances

If you’re now trying to conceive with a new partner, their fertility factors—such as sperm quality, hormone levels, or reproductive history—can play a role. Even in ongoing partnerships, stress, aging, or changing health conditions can shift what’s happening behind the scenes.

The important thing to remember is that this is no one’s fault. Fertility isn’t static, and what worked before may need more support now. Our job is to figure out why—and to guide you toward a plan that brings your family-building goals back into focus.

When to Seek Support

If you’re under 35 and have been trying for a year—or over 35 and have been trying for six months—it may be time to connect with a fertility specialist. Even if you just want clarity before continuing your journey, we’re here to listen and help you take the next step with confidence.

Your first visit to FST will include a comprehensive review of your medical and reproductive history, previous pregnancies, and current efforts to conceive. Based on your situation, we may recommend testing such as:

• Hormone panels and ovarian reserve testing
• Semen analysis
• Uterine and fallopian tube evaluations
• Imaging to identify fibroids, adhesions, or other anatomical concerns

This is not a comprehensive list. These tests are safe, safe, minimally invasive and straightforward, helping us understand what’s happening beneath the surface. From there, we’ll walk you through the next steps that align with your goals and timeline.

We Offer Personalized Care for Secondary Infertility

Just like the reasons behind secondary infertility vary, so do the solutions. At FST, we create a treatment plan built around your current needs—not just your past outcomes. Depending on your diagnosis and preferences, treatment may include:

• Timed Intercourse or Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) – A lower-intervention option for many types of mild-to-moderate infertility
• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) – Often recommended when multiple factors are at play, including diminished ovarian reserve, endometriosis, or severe male factor issues
• Minimally Invasive Surgery – For fibroid removal, tubal repair, or treating conditions like endometriosis
• Donor Services – Including donor eggs, sperm, embryos, or gestational carriers
• Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) – To assess embryo health before transfer
• ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection)– A single sperm is injected into an egg to help with fertilization, often used for male factor infertility or after IVF has been unsuccessful

Every person and situation are unique. Your provider will take the time to explain your options, answer your questions, and help you move forward with clarity and care.

You’re Not Starting Over—You’re Beginning Again

If you’re feeling frustrated by the gap between hope and results, we understand. Secondary infertility can bring a unique emotional weight. Many people tell us they didn’t expect to need support again—or that they feel guilty or discouraged.

Secondary infertility carries both gratitude and grief—the joy of being a parent endures, even as the longing to grow your family grows stronger. While being near pregnancy can stir deep emotions, we’re here to help your hope grow into new beginnings—and to support your path to pregnancy.

Please know this: needing help doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It means you care enough to try.

At Fertility Specialists of Texas, we’ll meet you with empathy, honesty, and a plan designed just for you. With advanced testing, evidence-based treatment, and a team that sees you, we’ll support the next chapter of your family’s story.

* https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21139-secondary-infertility