Fallopian Tube Blockage affect on Pregnancy – Diagnostic Tests and Symptoms

Fallopian tubes are one of the most crucial parts of the female reproductive system. The main function of the fallopian tube is to transport the egg from the ovary to the uterus for fertilization procedure. Usually, there are two fallopian tubes which are present in a woman’s body. In case of complications like ectopic pregnancy or surgery, one fallopian tube can be lost in the women. If you have some kind of problem mainly blockage in your fallopian tube, then there are high chances of having issues in conceiving a baby naturally. You will be surprised to know that according to the latest research; around 28% of the infertility cases in women are due to fallopian tube blockage.

How do fallopian tubes get blocked?

The uterus has a certain kind of lining which is present inside the uterus. This is called as ‘endometrium’ or endometrial lining. In case of a non-pregnant woman, every month this lining sheds at the time of the menstruation. If someone has Endometriosis; a condition where the endometrium grows outside regions especially in the areas of cervix, bladder, and vagina, their fallopian tube can get blocked. Endometrium causes irritation to the involved parts such as fallopian tubes and ovaries and led to the formation of scar tissue. Now, this scar tissue blocks fallopian tubes.

The fallopian tubes can also get blocked due to the occurrence of a condition known as ‘hydrosalpinx’. In this condition, a fluid gets filled due to an infection or injury. It is known to affect both the fallopian tubes together. The tubes get blocked which hamper the transport of the sperms and eggs for fertilization step. This restricts the occurrence of a successful pregnancy.

To know more about the causes and treatment of blocked fallopian tube, you can explore our article on Blocked Fallopian Tubes Treatments.

How does fallopian tube blockage affect the chances of pregnancy?

Before we proceed with the symptoms of fallopian tube blockage, it is essential to know the way it affects the chances of pregnancy. Yes, fallopian tube blockage is one of the main reasons for the reduction in the chances of pregnancy if not diagnosed and treated at the right point of time. The movement of sperms gets obstructed due to the blockage of fallopian tubes. Restricted sperm movement prevents the sperm fertilization with the egg inside the fallopian tube. If somehow, a sperm reaches the egg, the formed embryo cannot reach the uterus due to an obstruction in the fallopian tube. This increases the chances of ectopic pregnancy or tubal pregnancy. If there is blockage due to endometrium or hydrosalpinx, then you need to consult your doctor to treat your fallopian tube blockage. Sometimes, the opening of the fallopian tube increases your chances of getting pregnant naturally.

How are fallopian tube blockages diagnosed?

Fallopian tube blockages are diagnosed with the help of the medical tests like—

1. SSG (Saline Salpingo Sonography)

SSG test is used to evaluate the patency of the tubes. In this process, sterile saline is passed into the uterus through the cervix. Images of the uterine cavity and fallopian tubes can be visualized on the screen with the help of transvaginal ultrasound. Female patients usually prefer SSG test for the diagnosis of fallopian tube blockage.

2. HSG (hysterosalpingography)

This test involves the usage of x-rays. The fluid or radiographic die is injected into the uterus and x-rays are taken at every step to check the flow of fluid into the fallopian tubes. This procedure is slightly painful as a thin tube is inserted inside the uterus to inject the dye.

3. Laparoscopy

During laparoscopic surgery, fluid is passed into the uterus and the doctor keeps a check on the pattern of flow of fluid in the surrounding areas. If there is a blockage, it will be clearly visible during the procedure. Laparoscopy can also be used to open the blocked tubes at the time of diagnosis itself.

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What are the symptoms of fallopian tube blockage?

There are various signs and symptoms that are associated with fallopian tube blockage and its causes. Some of these signs and symptoms of the fallopian tube blockage are closely associated with the symptoms of endometriosis. Here are the crucial signs and symptoms, which may indicate, blocked tubes.

1- Pelvic pain

Pelvic pain is one of the most common signs and symptoms of the fallopian tube blockage. It is caused in the lower abdomen and pelvis (large bony frame near the base of the spine). Pelvic pain is also associated with endometriosis and pelvic infection. Hence, it requires a proper diagnosis to identify the cause of pelvic pain.

2- Painful intercourse

If you feel pain at the time of intercourse, you need to get yourself tested for the blocked fallopian tubes. Tubal blockage can commonly be seen in patients who feel excessive discomfort at the time of having sex.

3- Painful bowel movements

Bowel movements are quite painful if a female has fallopian tube blockage. Many women feel the urge of urinating but feel anxious and discomfort at the time of urination. If you are feeling similar pain at the time of urination, then fallopian tube blockage can be the reason behind your painful bowel movements.

4- Severe abdominal pain

Abdominal pain is quite common in individuals who have fallopian tube blockage. Severe, recurrent pain occurs in the abdomen and the most peculiar thing is that such pain occurs on one side of the abdomen. You will note that this type of pain occurs only at the time of menstruation or ovulation. So, you need to keep a check on the patterns of the abdominal pain for proper diagnosis of the fallopian tube blockage.

5- Unusual vaginal discharge

Vaginal discharge is quite common in women. But if you are experiencing usual vaginal discharge in increased quantity, then it might indicate the presence of fallopian tube blockage.

6- Lower back pain

Lower back pain can occur in women with fallopian tube blockage. Some of the women might relate lower back pain to obesity or temporary fatigue. But, lower back pain is a symptom, which can be routinely seen in blocked fallopian tube cases. So, if you are experiencing regular lower back pain for consistently long periods, then you need to consult a doctor soon.

7- Heavy and irregular periods

If you have fallopian tube blockage, then there are chances of heavy bleeding and irregular periods. Women who have heavy periods find much difficulty in their daily lives. Fallopian tube blockage is often associated with heavy bleeding during periods.

8- Fatigue

Many women in their reproductive age feel tired than the regular levels. If you are feeling the same, then you need to make sure that you get yourself checked from a fertility specialist. Fatigue and tiredness for a long period of time can be a symptom of fallopian tube blockage.

Also, feel free to read about various fertility treatments such as IVF, IUI, and ICSI. For any assistance infertility treatments, you can call us at +91 7701886525

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