Primary and secondary infertility: what is the difference?

Infertility is a disorder that affects many people. Reports published by the World Health Organization (WHO) in April 2023 indicated the high percentage of people affected by this reproductive problem. One in six people in the world experiences infertility (around 18%), which makes access to quality care urgent for those who need it, also depending on the type of infertility involved, which can be primary or secondary.

Although the prevalence of infertility varies little from one region to another and the rates are similar in all countries, the likelihood of infertility is increasing more and more. Society’s change of paradigm has shifted exponentially. Now, young Europeans in particular are increasingly delaying the age at which they start a family, for different situations or circumstances.

This delay goes against women’s fertile nature, since age is one of the main risk factors for female fertility, along with lifestyle, hormonal imbalances or other conditions such as endometriosis.

Below, and to mark infertility month, which is celebrated every June, we will look at the differences between these two types of infertility, primary and secondary, and shed light on a phenomenon that is affecting more and more young people.

What is primary infertility?

Primary infertility is understood as the disorder of the reproductive system (male or female) consisting of the inability to achieve pregnancy after 12 months or more of frequent sexual intercourse.

It is diagnosed after one year, although this is reduced to only six months if the woman is 35 or older.

This type of infertility, primary infertility, is the most common and best known, although there is also another type of infertility: secondary infertility.

What is secondary infertility? How does it differ from primary infertility?

This problem arises when the couple in question has already had a previous successful pregnancy, but cannot conceive naturally again. This is the difference with respect to primary infertility.

The reasons are very varied and it can even be influenced by factors that appear after the first pregnancy. Ovulation problems, endometriosis, changes in the general health of one or both members of the couple, a poor diet or consumption habits, or age can have a direct effect on a new scenario of infertility not previously experienced.

How is secondary infertility treated?

Sometimes, when there is no deficiency in egg quality or ovarian reserve, or damage to the Fallopian tubes, for example, the cure for this reproductive disorder lies in changes to lifestyle or habits.

Looking after your diet, resting correctly and adequately, doing moderate physical activity, reducing stress levels or maintaining an appropriate and proportionate weight are factors that can help improve the chances of conceiving.

If, despite making these changes, it is still impossible to achieve pregnancy, it will be advisable to see an assisted reproduction specialist to assess your personal case.