Secondary Infertility is a cause of much heartbreak
Although it does not get so much publicity as those who are struggling to conceive for the first time, secondary infertility is a cause of much heartbreak. It is a myth that if you already have one child, you know you are fertile and will have no problems conceiving again. Indeed infertility does not discriminate and can strike anyone at anytime throughout the childbearing years. Secondary infertility — the inability to get pregnant naturally or carry a pregnancy to term after successfully conceiving one or more children — is very common. However ,unlike those experiencing difficulty having their first child, people who are affected by secondary infertility are much less likely to seek infertility treatments. This is especially true if they had no problems conceiving the first time round. Many in this situation are told that they have nothing to worry about, to just keep trying. This can lead to much frustration and loss of precious time. It is for this reason that I am taking part in a Fertility Freedom Workshop on Tuesday March 10th at Worcester Therapies to explain more about how acupuncture, hypnotherapy and nutrition can help with fertility. My co-presenters are Sally, a hypnotherapist and Rebecca, a nutritionalist. If you would like to attend please contact me on 07919930188.
Common Causes of Secondary Infertility
These may be similar to those of primary infertility:
Age – this is probably the biggest issue, especially if the woman was older when she conceived her first child. Also couples often delay trying for another child if they believe that conception will be easy. The natural decline in ovarian function is often the single most important factor in fertility. Although acupuncture can’t turn back the clock it can help to provide the best possible environment for your eggs
Structural complications – pelvic/tubal factors can have a big impact. For example sexually transmitted disease, endometriosis can lead to to pelvic adhesions that can interfere with the ability of the egg to be picked up by the fallopian tubes. Likewise if there were complications during a prior delivery or a woman developed a uterine infection or if had to have pelvic surgery this could lead to scarring which can also interfere with the passage of the egg in the fallopian tubes.
Sperm quality and quantity – just as a woman’s fertility can change with time, so can a man’s. Changes in sperm quality and quantity may occur due to changes in health or new medications. That is why it is important to get a semen analysis as one of the basic aspects of an initial infertility evaluation. Sperm quality can be improved through acupuncture
Weight gain – weight can have a huge impact on the ability to conceive. Excessive weight gain can contribute to ovulatory dysfunction. With increased weight, insulin resistance can increase as well which leads to elevated production of testosterone from the ovaries, a phenomenon that can further prevent normal ovulation. In men, excessive weight can also negatively affect sperm production by increasing oestrogen levels.
As with primary infertility it is important to:
- Have sex frequently
- Know your fertile time
- De-stress – acupuncture can be helpful with this for more information visit my page about acupuncture and fertility or phone Angela on 07919 930188
- Give up smoking
- Be a healthy weight
