Understanding Blocked Fallopian Tubes: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment Options

Blocked Fallopian Tubes: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

The fallopian tubes are an essential part of the female reproductive system, playing a crucial role in conception. After ovulation, the ovum (egg) is released from the ovaries and is captured by the fallopian tube. This is the place where the sperm meets the egg, leading to fertilisation.

Each tube is muscular and lined with ciliated epithelial cells—tiny hair-like structures called cilia that help move the fertilised embryo toward the uterus within three days and assist sperm in travelling upward from the uterus.

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What Causes Fallopian Tube Blockage?

A blocked fallopian tube, medically known as tubal occlusion, occurs when scar tissue or damage obstructs the passage. It is one of the common causes of female infertility.

There are no direct symptoms of blocked fallopian tubes, but certain signs and risk factors can indicate the possibility.

Symptoms of Blocked Fallopian Tubes

• Difficulty conceiving may be the only noticeable symptom.
• Pelvic or lower abdominal pain, which may occur during periods or persist continuously.
• In some cases, blockage can lead to an ectopic pregnancy—when a fertilised egg gets stuck in the tube.
  • Symptoms include abdominal pain (usually on one side) and vaginal bleeding.
  • This condition requires immediate medical attention.

Common Causes of Tubal Blockage

Several conditions may lead to blocked fallopian tubes, including:

1. Pelvic infections or a history of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
2. Previous burst appendix or abdominal infection
3. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia or gonorrhea
4. Endometriosis, where the uterine lining grows outside the uterus
5. Past abdominal or pelvic surgery, which may cause scar tissue
6. Hydrosalpinx, a condition where the tube fills with fluid and swells

These factors can lead to scar tissue formation or blockage that interferes with conception.

Diagnosis of Fallopian Tube Blockage

Two common procedures are used for diagnosis:

1. Hysterosalpingography (HSG)

An X-ray test in which a contrast dye is injected through the vagina into the uterus. If the fallopian tubes are open, the dye flows freely and spills into the pelvic cavity. Blocked tubes prevent the dye from passing through.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends HSG as the primary screening test for tubal infertility.

2. Laparoscopy

A minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows direct visualisation and assessment of the tubes and surrounding structures.

Treatment Options for Blocked Fallopian Tubes

• Fallopian Tube Cannulation:
• A procedure performed using HSG or hysteroscopy to clear minor blockages using a fine guidewire.
• Surgical Repair:
• In certain cases, laparoscopic surgery can remove scar tissue or repair the tubes.
• In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF):
• If the fallopian tubes are severely damaged, IVF is the most effective treatment. Fertilisation takes place in a laboratory, bypassing the tubes entirely.

IVF remains the best option for tubal ligation factor infertility.