Secondary Infertility

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What is secondary infertility?

Secondary infertility is the inability to become pregnant or carry a pregnancy to term after previously having one or more successful pregnancies. In other words, a person or couple who had a child before—without needing fertility treatment—now experiences difficulty conceiving again for at least 12 months (or 6 months if the woman is 35 or older).

Common Related Conditions

Pelvic Adhesions

Endometriosis

Blocked or Damaged Fallopian Tubes

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Hormonal Imbalances

C-Section Pain

Myomectomy Pain

Causes of secondary infertility

The causes can be varied and often involve a combination of factors. Age-related changes, such as a decline in egg quantity and quality or reduced sperm health, play a significant role. Hormonal or ovulatory issues, including thyroid disorders, PCOS, or irregular ovulation. Structural or mechanical problems, such as adhesions from prior surgeries, C-sections, infection, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids, may interfere with conception. Factors related to a previous pregnancy, like scarring or birth trauma, can further complicate fertility.

Whether due to a surgery, infection, endometriosis, or trauma, when tissue is damaged within a woman’s reproductive tract, microscopic collagen fibers, similar to the strands of a nylon rope, rush in to isolate and blanket the area, to start the healing process. As these fibers lie on each other, they form blankets or rope-like internal scars called adhesions. Acting like powerful internal glue, adhesions tend to remain in the body for life unless cut in surgery or treated with a manual therapy (Clear Passage®.) shown to be effective at decreasing or eliminating them. Adhesions can constrict reproductive structures or bind them to nearby structures, decreasing function and sometimes causing pain.

C-section surgery accounts for roughly a third of all live births in the USA. It is a major invasive surgery that involves cutting through several layers of tissue, including the skin, subcutaneous fat, fascia, muscle (rectus abdominis), the peritoneum, uterus, and finally the amniotic sac. The surgeon first makes an incision through the abdominal wall, separating the tissues to reach the uterus, where another incision is made to deliver the baby. We find scarring from a C-section is a major cause of secondary infertility as a powerful post-surgical form on the uterus, and within the delicate tissues of the female reproductive system. In some cases, we have seen that C-section scarring has caused life-threatening small bowel obstruction, when the intestine becomes narrowed or blocked by post-surgical adhesions.

Adhesions and scar tissue in the uterus may prevent proper embryo implantation. When scar tissue pulls on the uterus, it can cause spasm and miscarriage. Scar tissue around the ovaries can deter proper hormonal function or prevent the release of an egg. Scar tissue near the fallopian tubes may cause the tubes to become kinked or blocked. Adhesions may cause tightness within the vagina or cervical stenosis (stiffness), thus causing vaginal inflammation or restricting the passage of sperm into the uterus and tubes.

Finally, lifestyle and health changes, including weight fluctuations, stress, smoking, alcohol use, and chronic illness, can affect fertility. Understanding these causes is essential for identifying effective treatment options.

Male-factor issues, such as low sperm count, poor motility, or new medical conditions, may also be responsible. Clear Passage® does not treat male infertility and recommends you consult with a healthcare professional.

Symptoms of secondary infertility

Symptoms of secondary infertility can be subtle because, unlike some conditions, it often doesn’t produce obvious physical signs. The primary “symptom” is the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse (or 6 months if the woman is over 35).

Other possible signs that may indicate underlying issues include:

Pain in your lower abdomen
Pain or bleeding during intercourse
Burning sensation during urination
Bleeding between periods
Sharp abdominal cramps
Dysmenorrhea, intense pain during menstruation
Pain during bowel movements or urination
Pain on one side of your body
Fever

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, make sure to tell your doctor. He or she should be able to narrow down the cause of your secondary infertility.

Treatment for secondary infertility

The “hands-on” work practiced at Clear Passage® clinics is designed to reduce or eliminate adhesive bonds, called cross-links. Our work has been shown in peer-reviewed medical journals to reduce adhesions, decrease pain, and improve soft tissue mobility without drugs or the risks associated with surgery. We have helped hundreds of women conceive after struggling with secondary or unexplained infertility.

No medical technique has a 100% success rate. If you are unable to conceive after treatment at our facility, studies show that your chances for a successful IVF performed within 15 months after therapy increase by roughly 50%.

Other Treatment Options (Surgery, Drugs)

Without knowing the root cause of your secondary infertility, treatment options are limited. Some treatment options for women experiencing secondary infertility include:

IVF
Surgery
Medications to induce ovulation

Condition Specific Disclaimer:

Clear Passage® Therapy provides specialized manual physical therapy aimed at improving pelvic mobility, reducing adhesions, and improving your reproductive health. Results vary by individual. Neither Clear Passage® nor any medical technique or intervention can guarantee a pregnancy. We encourage every patient to consult her physician to discuss comprehensive fertility options and determine her most appropriate course of care.

Testimonials:

To read Clear Passage® Therapy patient success stories, please visit our Testimonials page.