Fallopian Tubes
Oct 3, 2008
Fallopian Tubes
The female reproductive systems includes two fallopian tubes, one on each side of the uterus. These flexible, trumpet-shaped tubes extend to the surface of each ovary. When the ovary releases an egg, finger-like projections at the flared end of the tube catch the egg. It is there, in the tube, that conception occurs if the egg meets sperm and becomes fertilized. Tiny hairs inside the tube’s lining push the resulting embryo (fertilized egg) out of the tube and into the uterus where it implants and grows.
Tubal-related infertility may result when one or both tubes are blocked, or scarring or damage to the tubes occurs.
What Causes It?
Blocked fallopian tubes may be caused by an infection from a sexually transmitted disease such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which causes scar tissue to build up on the walls of the tubes. Endometriosis also may result in scar tissue and adhesions which can block the fallopian tubes.
In an ectopic pregnancy (also known as a tubal pregnancy) the embryo grows in the fallopian tube instead of in the uterus. Surgery for an ectopic pregnancy can cause the fallopian tube to rupture and lead to infertility. An ectopic pregnancy can also be a life-threatening situation.
In other instances the fallopian tubes are blocked because the structure of the tubes is abnormal. Structural disorders are usually due to birth defects.
How Does It Affect Infertility?
Adhesions may distort the normal structure of the fallopian tubes and make pregnancy difficult. Blocked, damaged, or scarred fallopian tubes can prevent the tubes from functioning properly. When scar tissue blocks the tubes, fertilization cannot occur since the egg can’t get through the blockage to the sperm. The blockage can also trap a fertilized egg near the ovary preventing it from traveling through the fallopian tubes to the uterus.
About 20 percent to 25 percent of infertility cases are due to problems with the fallopian tubes. Depending on the extent and location of the blockage, some fallopian tube problems can be corrected with surgery.
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What if you had an abortion 11 years ago and are now trying to get pregnant. When I had an aboriton, I had tissue left over inside and had to get a second procedure to get the tissue removed. I was wondering if this could lead to complications getting pregnant?
I just had the most informative Dr.'s visit of my life...I grew up in a very small Louisiana town and during my 20's contracted a very bad STD. I'm not really sure if my mother even understood what the Dr. told her that day and certainly know that I didn't...Anyway years later I'm facing 40 and have never even been close to pregnant...The Dr. today informed me that I have classic symptoms of "endomitriosis" and showed me the scar tissue as well as a "dialated fallopian tube"
I wonder if that's the reason and if it's correctable...? I mean... I know my chances are "slim to none"...But could there still be some hope?
Hi LV --
Endometriosis is not related to having had an STD. It can certainly be a cause of infertility and it might be correctable. I encourage you to seek out the help of a fertility specialist! They will be able to tell you what your options are.
:)
Claire
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Need help with our site? Contact me at claire@fertilityauthority.com. I'm happy to help!
I am 26 years old and have had an ectopic pregnancy in August of 2006 and another in March 2008. I have pelvic exams done every six months and no doctor has told me about any infection or a abnormal tube. Is there any other reason one could have an ectopic pregnancy? I hope I am able to have children!
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