What are fallopian tubes?
The developed egg is guided from the ovaries to the uterus by two thin tubes called fallopian tubes, one on each side of the organ. When an impediment, such as an infection, prevents the egg from moving down the tube, the fallopian tube is blocked, referred to as tubal factor infertility. Up to 30% of women have stated blocked fallopian tubes as a cause of infertility, which can happen on either one or both sides.
People who have blocked fallopian tubes rarely show any symptoms. Many people with this issue have a misconception that their fertility is fine if they are experiencing regular cycles. Unfortunately, it’s not always the case.
An egg is discharged from one of the ovaries each month during ovulation. From the ovary, the egg moves through the tubes and into the uterus. To reach the egg, the sperm must go through the uterus, fallopian tubes, and cervix. Usually, fertilization occurs as the egg is transported down the tube.
Symptoms of blocked fallopian tubes
Contrary to anovulation, which may be determined by irregular menstrual periods, obstructed fallopian tubes rarely result in symptoms. Instead, infertility is frequently the first “symptom” of obstructed fallopian tubes. So, in addition to routine fertility testing, your doctor may order a specialist X-ray to check your fallopian tubes if you haven’t been pregnant after a year of trying (or after six months if you’re age 35 or older).
Lower abdomen pain and atypical vaginal discharge are possible indications of a particular type of obstructed fallopian tube termed a hydrosalpinx; however, not all women may experience these signs. The condition is known as hydrosalpinx when a blockage causes the tube to expand (grow in diameter) and fill with fluid. As a result, fertilization and pregnancy are prevented because the fluid inhibits the sperm and egg.
Blocked fallopian tubes can have a variety of causes, some of which may also have unusual symptoms. For instance, painful menstruation and painful sexual activity may be brought on by endometriosis and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
The following symptoms could point to a pelvic infection:
- General pelvic ache discomfort during sex
- Fever over 101 and foul-smelling vaginal discharge (in acute cases)
- Nauseous and dizzy (in acute cases)
- Severe pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort (in acute cases)
Acute pelvic infections may pose a serious threat to life. Consult an expert immediately or visit the closest emergency facility if you have a high temperature or excruciating discomfort.
Fallopian tube blockage treatment
You might be able to get pregnant naturally if you only have one open tube and are otherwise healthy. Your doctor may prescribe fertility medications to you to boost the likelihood that you will ovulate on the side of the tube that is still open. But if both tubes are blocked, there is no other choice.
It’s crucial to understand that even if this medicine is provided to aid in conception, a blocked fallopian tube cannot be unblocked. Surgery is the sole option that may assist clear a clogged tube; however, it is not always effective. Below is what you need to know about tubal ligation, IVF, and surgery for blocked tubes.
In-Vitro Fertilization
Before the development of in vitro fertilization (IVF), women with blocked tubes had no further options if repair surgery didn’t work or wasn’t an option. However, conception is made possible with IVF. To stimulate the ovaries during IVF, fertility medications are taken. The eggs are then taken straight from the ovaries by your doctor using an ultrasound-guided needle through the vaginal wall. Blockages in the fallopian tubes are irrelevant because IVF entirely avoids them. However, studies show that an irritated tube might greatly reduce the likelihood of IVF success.
Laparoscopic Surgery
Laparoscopic surgery can clear scar tissues or unclog obstructed channels. But, unfortunately, this course of action is only sometimes effective. The likelihood of success is influenced by your age, the severity of the blockage, and its underlying cause.
Reverse Tubal Ligation
A permanent birth control method known as “having your tubes tied” is tubal ligation surgery. A surgeon could cut the tubes, band them, clamp them, or insert specific coils inside, among other options. The fallopian tubes are purposefully blocked to prevent sperm from reaching the egg. Between 20% and 30% of women who had tubal ligations later expressed remorse.
Why choose Endoworld for expert consultation & treatment?
If you are facing issues with fertility due to blocked fallopian tubes, book an appointment with Endoworld today. With a team of qualified professionals and extensive experience backed with advanced equipment, Endoworld offers comprehensive infertility treatments.