Tubal Factor Infertility
Tubal factor infertility occurs when a blockage in the fallopian tubes will not allow the egg and sperm to meet. Tubal factor infertility accounts for about 25-30% of all cases of infertility.
What causes tubal factor infertility?
Infections, abdominal surgery, and diseases such as endometriosis can cause scarring to any portion of the fallopian tube. The delicate ends of the fallopian tubes (called the fimbria) are particularly vulnerable to damage. They have the important job of picking up the egg that has been ovulated from the ovary. Glands within the inner tube naturally produce a watery fluid. If the end of the tube closes off due to scarring, that fluid collects within the tube, producing a sausage-shaped swelling that is called a hydrosalpinx.
Chlamydia and gonorrhea are two common sexually transmitted infections that can cause tubal infertility. A ruptured appendix or even pelvic tuberculosis can cause a tubal infection. Surgery can also damage your fallopian tubes.
Pelvic inflammatory disease is an infection of a woman’s reproductive organs. It is a complication often caused by some STDs, like chlamydia and gonorrhea. Other infections that are not sexually transmitted can also cause PID.
What are the symptoms of tubal factor infertility?
Most women with tubal infertility are asymptomatic. Often they don’t realize their fallopian tubes are blocked until they consult a doctor for infertility, though women with extensive tubal damage may experience chronic pelvic pain.
How is tubal factor infertility diagnosed?
To confirm whether or not one or both fallopian tubes are blocked, your doctor may perform one of these two procedures:
How is tubal factor infertility treated?
If your tubes are blocked or damaged, your treatment options include in vitro fertilization (IVF) or surgery:
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