The Irish government has announced plans to extend IVF funding to couples struggling with secondary infertility, a step welcomed by many who have faced the heartbreaking challenge of trying to expand their families. Sharon Ní Chonchúir reports on the experiences of two women and the expert advice available to help those in similar situations.
Sarah Ellis, a mother from Kildare, had a smooth pregnancy with her five-year-old son, born when she was 35. She recalls her surprise and joy at conceiving naturally, with no struggle or complications. However, at 37, Ellis suffered a devastating miscarriage, followed by three more losses, despite taking every precaution she could to maintain her pregnancies. From supplements to avoiding toxins, Ellis did everything recommended, yet she found herself unable to carry another child beyond the eight-week mark.
Similarly, Suzanne Ronayne from Galway, a mother of a nine-year-old son, has faced her own fertility struggles. After miscarrying at 10 weeks in May 2023 and then facing a heartbreaking decision to terminate a pregnancy due to severe fetal abnormalities, Ronayne has found it difficult to conceive again. Following her termination, doctors discovered that Ronayne’s fallopian tubes were blocked, likely due to an infection from the procedure.
Both women are experiencing secondary infertility, a condition that, according to the HSE, affects 35-40% of couples dealing with fertility issues. Dr. John Waterstone, medical director at Waterstone Clinic, explains that secondary infertility occurs when a person who has previously given birth struggles to conceive again. He highlights the emotional strain of secondary infertility, as many expect to have no trouble getting pregnant once they’ve had a child.
While primary infertility often attracts more media attention, secondary infertility is a largely unspoken issue. Dr. John Kennedy, medical director at Thérapie Fertility, acknowledges that those facing secondary infertility often feel guilty or ashamed for seeking help. Jessica Bourke, a natural fertility expert, echoes this sentiment, noting that many people feel the pressure of society’s expectation to be grateful for the children they already have, even when they long for more.
Age is often a key factor contributing to secondary infertility. Dr. Waterstone explains that a woman’s egg quality declines over time, which can make conception more difficult, particularly for those who gave birth later in life. Conditions like endometriosis, which can worsen with age, may also play a role in fertility challenges.
Another consideration for women struggling with secondary infertility is whether previous cesarean sections may impact fertility. A 2023 study suggested a slightly decreased chance of conception for women who’ve had C-sections, but both Dr. Waterstone and Dr. Kennedy downplay this concern, noting that scarring from cesareans rarely affects fertility.
The treatment options for secondary infertility are similar to those for primary infertility. Couples can seek assistance from fertility specialists, who will typically start with hormone tests, ultrasound scans, and semen analysis. Tracking ovulation is crucial for many women, as irregular cycles may cause missed opportunities for conception. Treatments such as ovulation induction, intrauterine insemination (IUI), and in vitro fertilization (IVF) are commonly used to address infertility.
Dr. Waterstone notes that older women in their late 30s and 40s often opt for IVF, which increases the chances of success by generating multiple eggs and offering the option to freeze embryos. With the recent announcement that the HSE will extend public funding for IVF to include couples facing secondary infertility, many see this as an important step forward in recognizing and addressing the challenges faced by these families.
Despite their struggles, both Ellis and Ronayne are committed to continuing their journeys to expand their families. Ellis is undergoing fertility testing and remains hopeful, while Ronayne plans to raise awareness about Ireland’s restrictive abortion laws and is awaiting her first fertility appointment. For both women, the desire for a second child remains strong, even as they navigate the emotional and physical hurdles of infertility.
For anyone facing secondary infertility, there is support available. Dr. Waterstone emphasizes that couples should seek help as soon as they encounter difficulties conceiving or experiencing recurrent miscarriages. With a variety of treatment options and psychological support groups like NISIG, families do not have to face these challenges alone.
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