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What Are Blocked Fallopian Tubes and How Do They Cause Infertility?
Your fallopian tubes are two thin, muscular tubes that connect your ovaries to your uterus. They’re lined with delicate, hair-like structures called cilia, which help guide the egg from the ovary to the uterus and assist sperm in reaching the egg. Fertilisation usually happens inside these tubes, and the fertilised egg (embryo) then travels to the uterus to implant and grow into a pregnancy.When the fallopian tubes are blocked or damaged, this process gets disrupted. Here’s how:
- Sperm can’t reach the egg: A blockage stops sperm from travelling through the tube to fertilise the egg.
- Embryo can’t reach the uterus: Even if fertilisation happens, a blocked tube may prevent the embryo from moving to the uterus, leading to no pregnancy or an ectopic pregnancy (where the embryo implants in the tube).
Around 30 to 40 per cent of women facing infertility have issues with their fallopian tubes. If one tube is blocked, pregnancy might still be possible because the other tube can function. But if both tubes are blocked, natural conception becomes much less likely.
Causes of Blocked Fallopian Tubes
Several conditions or events can lead to scarring or blockages in the fallopian tubes. These tubes are small and delicate, so even minor damage can cause problems. These are the main causes:- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): This infection is typically caused by untreated sexually transmitted diseases like chlamydia or gonorrhoea, which leads to inflammation around the tubes. With time, this can create scar tissue and block the tubes.
- Endometriosis: Tissue similar to the lining of the uterus can sometimes grow outside it. When this happens on or near the fallopian tubes, it can lead to inflammation and scarring.
- Previous surgeries: Surgeries in the pelvic area, like those for uterine fibroids, endometriosis, or other abdominal issues, can leave scar tissue that affects the tubes’ function.
- Ectopic pregnancy: If a fertilised egg implants in the fallopian tube instead of the uterus, it can damage or rupture the tube. Surgery to remove the ectopic pregnancy may also cause scarring or require tube removal.
- Tubal ligation: This is a deliberate procedure where the tubes are blocked or cut to prevent pregnancy, often called “having your tubes tied.” It’s meant to be permanent, but reversal is sometimes possible with surgery.
- Hydrosalpinx: This happens when a tube is blocked and fluid builds up inside, causing swelling. It can further damage the tube and lower the chances of natural conception.
- Burst appendix: A past burst appendix can lead to pelvic scarring, which may block the fallopian tubes.
Each of these causes creates scar tissue or structural changes that interfere with the tubes’ ability to work properly.
Symptoms of Blocked Fallopian Tubes
Blocked fallopian tubes often don’t cause noticeable symptoms. For many individuals, the only clue is difficulty getting pregnant after trying for a year or more. However, some related conditions or complications may cause symptoms:- Pelvic or belly pain: Some individuals feel pain in their pelvis or abdomen, which may be constant or happen around their period. This is often linked to conditions like endometriosis or PID.
- Abnormal vaginal discharge: In cases of hydrosalpinx, you might notice unusual discharge.
- Painful periods or intercourse: Conditions like endometriosis or PID may cause painful periods or discomfort during intercourse.
- Ectopic pregnancy symptoms: If a fertilised egg gets stuck in a blocked tube, you might experience one-sided abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, or early pregnancy signs. This is a medical emergency, so seek help immediately if you suspect it.
Dealing with infertility due to blocked fallopian tubes can feel isolating, but you’re not alone. Knowing the possible causes and signs helps you take action early. If you’re ready to explore treatments, reach out to a fertility specialist to discuss what’s best for you. Many people find answers and options that work for them with the right tests and medical support.
FAQs on Could Blocked Fallopian Tubes Be Causing Your Infertility?
- Where does the egg go if the fallopian tubes are blocked?
The egg released from the ovary can’t travel through the tube if your fallopian tubes are blocked. It usually stays near the ovary and gets absorbed by the body over time. In some cases, the egg may get fertilised but become stuck in the tube. This can lead to an ectopic pregnancy. - Can a woman with blocked fallopian tubes get pregnant?
Natural pregnancy is difficult if both tubes are fully blocked. But with one open tube, pregnancy is still possible.
