Blocked Fallopian Tubes: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Blocked Fallopian Tubes

What Are Fallopian Tubes?

Blocked Fallopian Tubes – Fallopian Tubes are a Set of Two Tubes measuring (0.5-1.2) cm in Diameter & (10-12) cm that Connect the Ovaries to the Uterus. The Fallopian Tubes have a Layer of Mucosa, Serosa & Muscularis that provide Nutrients for Fertilized Ovum. In Summary, Fallopian Tubes have the following 3 Functions:

1. A Place for Egg & Sperm Fertilization.
2. Source of Nutrients for Fertilized Egg.
3. Transportation Gateway of Fertilized Egg to the Uterus.

What Are Blocked Fallopian Tubes?

Blocked Fallopian Tubes are a condition in which the tubes that connect the ovaries to the uterus are partially or fully obstructed, hindering the normal process of fertilization and pregnancy. These tubes play a crucial role in the reproductive system of a woman, as they serve as a pathway for the egg to travel from the ovary to the uterus, where it can implant itself and grow into a fetus.

Fallopian Tubes that are unable to aid the Transfer of a Fertilized Egg to the Ovaries Due to Adhesion Issues, Scarring of Tissues or Infections are Known as Blocked Fallopian Tubes.  Restrict the implantation of Embryo in the Uterus and is a Common Cause of Infertility in Women.

Blocked Fallopian Tubes

Effects of Blocked Fallopian Tubes on Pregnancy:

Blocked Fallopian Tubes can significantly reduce a woman’s chances of getting pregnant. If the egg cannot travel through the tube to reach the uterus, it cannot be fertilized by sperm, and pregnancy cannot occur. In some cases, if only one tube is blocked, pregnancy may still be possible, but it may be more difficult. However, if both tubes are completely blocked, pregnancy is unlikely without medical intervention.

If a woman with Fallopian Tubes Blocked does become pregnant, the risk of an ectopic pregnancy is increased. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus, often in the fallopian tube. This can be a life-threatening condition and requires immediate medical attention.

Also Read: How to Get Pregnant With Blocked Fallopian Tubes

How Blocked Fallopian Tubes Cause Infertility?

Blocked fallopian tubes can cause infertility in two ways. Firstly, they can prevent the eggs from being fertilized by the sperm. When the fallopian tubes are blocked, the sperm cannot reach the egg, and the fertilization process cannot take place. Secondly, fallopian tubes blocked can lead to an ectopic pregnancy, which is a dangerous condition where the fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus. This can lead to a life-threatening situation and permanent damage to the reproductive system.

Symptoms of Blocked Fallopian Tubes:

Blocked Fallopian Tubes may not always cause noticeable symptoms, making it difficult to diagnose. However, in some cases, women may experience pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal discharge, or irregular menstrual cycles. Pelvic pain may occur in the lower abdomen, and it may be sharp or dull. The pain may be constant or intermittent and may worsen during menstruation or sexual intercourse. Abnormal vaginal discharge may be thick, white, or yellowish, and it may have a foul odour. Irregular menstrual cycles may be shorter or longer than usual, or they may be absent altogether.

• Pelvic pain may occur in the lower abdomen, and it may be sharp or dull.
• The pain may be constant or intermittent and may worsen during menstruation or sexual intercourse.
• Abnormal vaginal discharge may be thick, white, or yellowish, and it may have a foul odour.
• Irregular menstrual cycles may be shorter or longer than usual, or they may be absent altogether.

Also Read: IVF Cost in Delhi 

Causes of Fallopian Tubes Blocked:

The fallopian tubes are an essential part of the female reproductive system. They are responsible for carrying the eggs from the ovaries to the uterus. If the fallopian tubes become blocked or damaged, it can make it difficult for a woman to become pregnant. There are several possible causes of blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), endometriosis, surgery, ectopic pregnancy, and tubal ligation.

1. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Pelvic inflammatory disease is an infection of the female reproductive organs that can cause damage to the fallopian tubes. PID is usually caused by sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea, but it can also be caused by other types of bacteria. When the infection spreads to the fallopian tubes, it can cause inflammation and scarring, which can lead to blockages.
2. Endometriosis: Endometriosis is a condition where the tissue that normally lines the uterus grows outside of the uterus, such as on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or other organs. This tissue can cause inflammation and scarring in the fallopian tubes, which can lead to blockages. Endometriosis can also cause the formation of adhesions, which are bands of scar tissue that can cause the fallopian tubes to stick to other organs, further obstructing the flow of eggs.
3. Surgery: Surgery on the reproductive organs can also lead to damaged or fallopian tubes blocked . For example, if a woman has surgery to remove fibroids or cysts, there is a risk of damage to the fallopian tubes. Similarly, if a woman has surgery to treat endometriosis, there is a risk of scarring that can cause blockages in the fallopian tubes.
4. Ectopic Pregnancy: An ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy that occurs outside of the uterus, usually in one of the fallopian tubes. Ectopic pregnancies are not viable and must be terminated, often through surgery. Unfortunately, the surgery to remove an ectopic pregnancy can also cause damage to the fallopian tubes, which can lead to blockages.
5. Tubal Ligation: Tubal ligation, also known as “getting your tubes tied,” is a surgical procedure that permanently blocks the fallopian tubes. While this procedure is intended to prevent pregnancy, it can also lead to infertility if a woman changes her mind and wants to become pregnant later. Sometimes, women who have had tubal ligation later choose to have a procedure called tubal ligation reversal to try to restore fertility, but this is not always successful.

In conclusion, damaged or fallopian tubes blocked can be caused by several factors, including pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, surgery, ectopic pregnancy, and tubal ligation. If you are experiencing infertility, it is important to talk to your doctor about the possible causes and treatments for your condition.

Also Read: What is Test Tube Baby

Diagnosis of Blocked Fallopian Tubes:

A doctor may suspect Blocked Fallopian Tubes if a woman has been trying to conceive for at least one year without success. To diagnose this condition, a doctor may perform various tests, such as an ultrasound, hysterosalpingogram (HSG), or laparoscopy. An ultrasound can help visualize the ovaries and uterus, while an HSG involves injecting dye into the uterus and tubes to check for any blockages. Laparoscopy is a surgical procedure that involves making small incisions in the abdomen to examine the reproductive organs and tubes directly.

List of 5 Comprehensive Diagnostics Tests to Diagnose Blocked Fallopian Tubes at Our IVF Clinics in India:

1. FALLOPOSCOPY: Falloposcopy is an Advanced Diagnostic Procedure to find out any Fallopian Tubes interferences. A Falloposcope is a Flexible Tube with a Camera that is inserted in the Uterus to gauge Damages or Blockages in the Fallopian Tubes. This is a Reliable Procedure that provides a Non-Incisional Transvaginal visual assessment of the Tubal Lumen to an Infertility Specialist.
2. TUBAL ENDOSCOPY: Tubal Transabdominal Endoscopy Provides a Very Accurate Assessment of Both the Internal & External Appearance of the Fallopian Tubes. Tubal Endoscopy is Very Similar to Falloposcopy although the Latter is slightly more advanced.
3. SALPINGOSCPY: Transabdominal Salpingoscopy Plays an Important Role in the Assessment of Mucosal Lesions in Tubal Infertility. It is an Advanced Procedure that can detect Tubal Phimosis, Hydrosalpinx, Pelvic Endometriosis, Proximal Tubal Blockages, Pelvic Endometriosis & Tubal Tuberculosis. This is an Advanced Diagnostic Test available at only the Best IVF Clinics in the World like Little Angel IVF.
4. HYSTEROSALPINGOGRAPHY: HSG Test has been one of the Earliest & Trusted Procedures used by Infertility Specialists to Find out Dilatation, Oviductal Patency, Stricture Formation or any Other obstruction in Fallopian Tubes. It is a Fantastic Procedure to find out Proximal Tubal Obstructions by Introducing a Harmless Dye and Capturing Images through an X-Ray. Some research indicates that this procedure is known to increase the Chances of Pregnancy by Mobilising Debris that may be present in the Tubes.
5. LAPAROSCOPY: Laparoscopy is Both a Diagnostic as well as Treatment Procedure Carried out to by an Infertility Doctor to Check & Correct Blocked Fallopian Tubes. Laparoscopy is a Surgical Procedure done under General Anaesthesia by making a small incision in the Abdomen to reach the Fallopian Tubes through a Laparoscope.

Also Read: IVF Procedure Step By Step

Treatments of Blocked Fallopian Tubes:

Blocked fallopian tubes can make it difficult for a woman to become pregnant. However, there are several treatment options available to help restore fertility. These treatment options include laparoscopic surgery, hydrosalpinx treatment and surgery, tubal cannulation, tubal ligation reversal, in vitro fertilization, and tubal ligation reversal.

1. Laparoscopic Surgery: Laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that can be used to treat blocked fallopian tubes caused by adhesions or endometriosis. During the procedure, a small incision is made in the abdomen, and a laparoscope is inserted to allow the surgeon to view the pelvic organs. The surgeon can then use small instruments to remove adhesions or endometrial tissue that may be blocking the fallopian tubes. Laparoscopic surgery is often successful in restoring fertility, and recovery time is usually shorter than with traditional surgery.
2. Hydrosalpinx Treatment and Surgery: Hydrosalpinx is a condition where the fallopian tubes become blocked and filled with fluid. This condition can be caused by pelvic inflammatory disease or endometriosis. Hydrosalpinx can also be a side effect of previous tubal ligation surgery. Treatment options for hydrosalpinx include antibiotics to treat any underlying infections, surgical removal of the fallopian tubes (salpingectomy), or a procedure called tubal occlusion, which blocks the fallopian tubes with small implants. In some cases, hydrosalpinx can be treated with a procedure called salpingostomy, where the surgeon creates a new opening in the fallopian tube to allow the fluid to drain.
3. Tubal Cannulation: Tubal cannulation is a procedure that involves using a small catheter to clear a blockage in the fallopian tubes. This procedure is often performed under local anaesthesia and can be done on an outpatient basis. Tubal cannulation can be used to treat blockages caused by scar tissue, mucus plugs, or other types of debris that may be obstructing the fallopian tubes.
4. Tubal Ligation Reversal: Tubal ligation reversal is a surgical procedure that is performed to restore fertility in women who have had their fallopian tubes tied. During the procedure, the surgeon will reconnect the ends of the fallopian tubes to allow the eggs and sperm to meet. Tubal ligation reversal is not always successful, and success rates depend on several factors, including the age of the patient and the type of tubal ligation that was performed. In some cases, in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be a better option for women who have had tubal ligation surgery.
5. In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): In vitro fertilization is a procedure that involves fertilizing the eggs with sperm in a laboratory setting and then transferring the resulting embryos to the woman’s uterus. IVF is often used as a treatment for infertility when other options have been unsuccessful. IVF is a more invasive and expensive procedure than other treatments for blocked fallopian tubes, but it can be a highly effective option for women who are struggling to conceive.

In conclusion, there are several treatment options available for women who have blocked fallopian tubes. These treatment options include laparoscopic surgery, hydrosalpinx treatment and surgery, tubal cannulation, tubal ligation reversal, in vitro fertilization, and tubal ligation reversal. The best treatment option will depend on the cause and severity of the blockage, as well as the patient’s individual circumstances and preferences. If you are struggling with infertility, it is important to talk to your doctor about the different treatment options available and which one may be the best option for you. Your doctor can perform diagnostic tests to determine the cause of your blocked fallopian tubes and recommend the appropriate treatment option.

It is important to keep in mind that treatment for blocked fallopian tubes can be expensive and may not always be successful. Some women may require multiple treatments or a combination of treatments to achieve pregnancy. It is also important to remember that fertility declines with age, so it is important to seek treatment sooner rather than later.

In addition to medical treatments, there are also lifestyle changes that women can make to improve their fertility. These include maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, and managing stress levels. These lifestyle changes can help to improve overall health and increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.

Also Read: What Is IVF Process

Prevention of Blocked Fallopian Tubes

Preventing blocked fallopian tubes requires a proactive approach to reproductive health. Here are some preventive measures that can help to reduce the risk of blocked fallopian tubes:

1. Practice Safe Sex: Safe sex practices are crucial in preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that can lead to PID. Always use a condom during sexual intercourse and get tested regularly for STIs.

2. Seek Prompt Treatment for Infections: Prompt treatment of infections in the reproductive organs can help prevent the spread of bacteria and minimize the risk of scarring that can lead to blocked fallopian tubes. If you experience any symptoms of PID, such as abdominal pain, fever, or unusual vaginal discharge, seek medical attention immediately.

3. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help prevent some of the conditions that can cause blocked fallopian tubes. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can help reduce the risk of conditions such as endometriosis and fibroids.

4. Consider Fertility Testing: If you have been trying to conceive for more than a year without success, it may be time to consider fertility testing. Fertility testing can help identify any underlying issues that may be preventing conception, including blocked fallopian tubes.

Conclusion

Blocked fallopian tubes are a common cause of infertility in women. While there are several causes of blocked fallopian tubes, most cases are preventable with a proactive approach to reproductive health. Practising safe sex, seeking prompt treatment for infections, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and considering fertility testing can all help reduce the risk of blocked fallopian tubes and improve the chances of conceiving. If you are experiencing any symptoms of infertility or have been trying to conceive for an extended period without success, speak with a healthcare provider for guidance and support.

FAQs:

Q: How do you unblock a fallopian tube?
A: Treatment for blocked fallopian tubes depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove scar tissue or repair a damaged tube. In other cases, fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be recommended.

Q: Can I get pregnant with blocked fallopian tubes?
A: It can be difficult to get pregnant with blocked fallopian tubes, as the egg may not be able to reach the uterus for fertilization. However, fertility treatments such as IVF can still be successful in helping women with blocked tubes to conceive.

Q: Can blocked fallopian tubes open naturally?
A: In some cases, blocked fallopian tubes can open naturally on their own. This may occur after treatment for an underlying infection or inflammation, or due to hormonal changes during a woman’s menstrual cycle.

Q: How can I open my blocked tubes naturally?
A: There is no guaranteed way to open blocked fallopian tubes naturally. Some women may try fertility-enhancing herbs or supplements, but it is important to speak with a healthcare provider before trying any alternative remedies.

Q: What are the signs of blocked fallopian tubes?
A: Symptoms of blocked fallopian tubes may include pelvic pain, unusual vaginal discharge, and difficulty getting pregnant. However, many women with blocked tubes do not experience any symptoms at all.

Q: What is the reason for blocked fallopian tubes?
A: Blocked fallopian tubes can be caused by a variety of factors, including pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, scar tissue from previous surgeries, and infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea.

Q: Why do women’s fallopian tubes get blocked?
A: Women’s fallopian tubes can become blocked due to a variety of factors, including infections, inflammation, scar tissue, and previous surgeries.

Q: What is the most common cause of tube blockage?
A: Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is one of the most common causes of fallopian tube blockage.

Q: How can I clean my fallopian tubes at home?
A: There is no safe or effective way to clean fallopian tubes at home. Women who suspect they have blocked tubes should speak with a healthcare provider for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Q: Can I ovulate with blocked fallopian tubes?
A: Yes, women with blocked fallopian tubes can still ovulate, as the ovaries are not affected by the blockage. However, the egg may not be able to travel to the uterus for fertilization.

Q: Is fallopian tube blockage treatment without surgery?
A: In some cases, fallopian tube blockage can be treated without surgery. Fertility treatments such as IVF may be recommended instead.

Q: Can someone with blocked fallopian tubes menstruate?
A: Yes, women with blocked fallopian tubes can still menstruate, as the blockage does not affect the production of menstrual hormones.

Q: How Long Does It Take to Get Pregnant With Blocked Fallopian Tubes?
A: The length of time it takes to get pregnant with blocked fallopian tubes depends on several factors, including the cause and severity of the blockage, as well as the woman’s age and overall fertility. In some cases, getting pregnant naturally with one functioning fallopian tube or fertility treatments such as IVF may be possible. However, in other cases, pregnancy may be difficult or impossible.

Q: How do damage or blocked fallopian tubes cause infertility?
A: Damaged or blocked fallopian tubes can cause infertility by preventing the egg from travelling from the ovary to the uterus or by preventing sperm from reaching the egg. When the fallopian tubes are blocked or damaged, the egg may not be able to meet the sperm for fertilization, and the fertilized egg may not be able to travel to the uterus for implantation. This can make it difficult or impossible to conceive naturally. In some cases, fertility treatments such as IVF may be used to bypass the fallopian tubes and achieve pregnancy.

Q: What are the symptoms of blocked Fallopian tubes?
A: Blocked Fallopian tubes often do not have any symptoms. However, some women may experience abdominal pain, irregular periods, or heavy periods. In some cases, infertility may be the only symptom.

Q: Is there a natural way to unblock Fallopian tubes?
A: There is limited evidence to suggest that certain herbs or supplements may be helpful in unblocking Fallopian tubes. However, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider before trying any natural remedies, as they may not be safe or effective.

Q: Can you get pregnant with one blocked Fallopian tube?
A: Yes, it is possible to get pregnant with one blocked Fallopian tube, as the egg can still travel through the open tube and be fertilized by sperm.

Q: What is the success rate of fertility treatments for blocked Fallopian tubes?
A: The success rate of fertility treatments for blocked Fallopian tubes varies depending on the cause and severity of the blockage, as well as the age and overall health of the woman. In general, IVF is the most effective treatment for blocked Fallopian tubes, with success rates ranging from 50% to 80%.

Q: How do you unblock a blocked fallopian tube?

A: There are several options for unblocking a blocked fallopian tube, including surgery, such as laparoscopy or hysteroscopy, or non-surgical options such as fertility drugs, tubal cannulation, and herbal remedies. The choice of treatment depends on the cause and severity of the blockage.

Q: Can you see periods with blocked of fallopian tubes?

A: Yes, women can still have their menstrual period. The blockage occurs in the fallopian tube, which is separate from the uterus where menstruation occurs.

Q: Does PCOS cause blocked of fallopian tubes?

A: PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome, does not directly, However, it can increase the risk of certain conditions, such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease, which may lead to tubal blockages.

Q: How can I unblock my fallopian tubes without surgery?

A: There are non-surgical options for unblocking fallopian tubes, such as fertility drugs, tubal cannulation, and herbal remedies. However, the effectiveness of these treatments may vary, and it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.

Q: What causes a woman’s fallopian tube to be blocked?

A: The most common causes blocked of fallopian tubes include pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, previous pelvic surgery, sexually transmitted infections, and ectopic pregnancy. Other factors, such as adhesions or scarring, may also contribute to tubal blockages.

Q: How do you unblock a blocked fallopian tube?

A: There are several options for unblocking a blocked fallopian tube, including surgery, such as laparoscopy or hysteroscopy, or non-surgical options such as fertility drugs, tubal cannulation, and herbal remedies. The choice of treatment depends on the cause and severity of the blockage.

Q: Can you see period with blocked fallopian tubes?

A: Yes, women can still have their menstrual period. The blockage occurs in the fallopian tube, which is separate from the uterus where menstruation occurs.

Q: Does PCOS cause blocked fallopian tubes?

A: PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome, does not directly. However, it can increase the risk of certain conditions, such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease, which may lead to tubal blockages.

Q: How can I unblock my fallopian tubes without surgery?

A: There are non-surgical options for unblocking fallopian tubes, such as fertility drugs, tubal cannulation, and herbal remedies. However, the effectiveness of these treatments may vary, and it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.

Q: What causes a woman’s fallopian tube to be blocked?

A: The most common causes of blocked fallopian tubes include pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, previous pelvic surgery, sexually transmitted infections, and ectopic pregnancy. Other factors, such as adhesions or scarring, may also contribute to tubal blockages.

Q: Do you ovulate with blocked Fallopian tubes?

A: Yes, ovulation can still occur. However, the eggs released during ovulation cannot reach the uterus for fertilization if the tubes are completely blocked.

Q: Can HSG unblock fallopian tubes?

A: In some cases, a hysterosalpingogram (HSG) can help to unblock fallopian tubes. During an HSG, a dye is injected into the uterus, and X-ray images are taken to determine if the dye flows through the fallopian tubes. The pressure from the dye and the imaging process can sometimes dislodge small blockages in the tubes.

Q: Where does the egg go if the fallopian tube is blocked?

A: If the fallopian tube is blocked, the egg released during ovulation will not be able to pass through the tube and reach the uterus. The egg will be reabsorbed by the body or expelled during the next menstrual cycle.

Q: How common is fallopian tube blockage?

A: Fallopian tube blockage is a common cause of infertility in women. It is estimated that up to 30% of female infertility cases are due to blocked fallopian tubes. The risk of blockage increases with age and certain medical conditions, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and endometriosis.