Discover how our clinic helps patients overcome secondary infertility
Our Indianapolis fertility center supports many patients experiencing secondary infertility. This diagnosis means the patient is having trouble conceiving after already having one or more children. This is a common fertility challenge that can be perplexing and frustrating, especially for patients who have easily conceived before. Our doctors understand this frustration and work closely with patients to discover the source of their fertility challenges. With a diagnosis, our team can recommend treatments to help patients take the next step toward parenthood.
Circumstances that might result in secondary infertility
A common reason some people have trouble conceiving again is that they’re trying to become pregnant with a new partner. This person might have fertility issues their former partner did not.
When a patient does not have a new partner, the cause of secondary infertility could be the development of fertility challenges in one or both partners since having their last child. There are a variety of fertility issues that could lead to trouble conceiving again.
Ovulatory dysfunction. Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and premature ovarian failure can make it difficult to become pregnant. In addition, as people with ovaries age, the quantity and quality of their eggs diminish. This can make it harder to conceive again.
Endometriosis. This condition can block the fallopian tubes. It can also cause problems with the lining of the uterus.
Uterine abnormalities. An embryo could have trouble implanting in the uterus if polyps, fibroids or intrauterine adhesions (scar tissue) are present.
Blocked fallopian tubes. Blockages in a person’s fallopian tubes could prevent the sperm from reaching the egg or a fertilized egg from entering the uterus.
Sperm issues. Patients with testes can have problems with the quality or quantity of their sperm.
The team at our Indianapolis fertility center works closely with patients to determine the cause of their new fertility issues.
Fertility tests and treatments that can help patients become parents
There are a variety of fertility tests that can help our doctors determine why a patient is experiencing secondary infertility. For patients with ovaries, common fertility evaluations include a physical exam, bloodwork and an ultrasound. For patients with testes, doctors typically recommend a semen analysis.
After reviewing the test results, the doctor works with the patient to develop a treatment plan. This plan will likely include one of the following treatment options.
In vitro fertilization (IVF) requires the patient with ovaries to take ovulation induction medications. When the patient’s eggs are mature, the doctor retrieves them during a simple procedure. An embryologist fertilizes the eggs with sperm from the patient’s partner or donor. The doctor then transfers one of the resulting embryos into the patient’s uterus.
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) consists of the doctor using a catheter to insert sperm from the patient’s partner or donor into the uterus. In some cases, the patient may take a medication like Clomid to help with ovulation (the release of an egg).
Our Indianapolis fertility center is here for patients through each step of this process. Our goal is to help our patients grow their families. Contact us for more information about our fertility services.
