What is fallopian tube obstruction?
The fallopian tube is one of the main female reproductive organs. It acts as a connection between the uterus and the ovaries. The main purpose of a fallopian tube is to carry an egg from the ovary to the uterus during ovulation. Not only that, but the fallopian tube is also responsible for conception. When the egg and sperm get fertilised, it moves through the fallopian tube for implantation.
Fallopian tube obstruction means blockage of the fallopian tube. It makes the passage for sperm to meet the egg and the passage for the fertilised egg to the uterus blocked.
What causes fallopian tube obstruction?
Various reasons can cause fallopian tube obstruction. Some of the common causes are:
Pelvic inflammatory disease:
Pelvic inflammatory diseases, which either create scars or hydrosalpinx, can cause fallopian tube obstruction
Sexually-transmitted infections:
Sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia and gonorrhoea can cause scarring of the fallopian tube, which in turn causes pelvic inflammatory diseases.
Ectopic pregnancy:
If the patient has any history of past ectopic pregnancy, she may experience fallopian tube obstruction.
Fibroids:
Fibroids are another major cause of fallopian tube obstruction. The fibroid growth in the fallopian tubes can lead to pelvic adhesions. These adhesions block the passage.
Endometriosis:
The growth of endometrial tissues also causes blockage in the fallopian tubes. Also, the growth of endometrial tissues on other organs causes fallopian tube obstruction.
History of abdominal surgery:
If the patient has records of any abdominal surgery, fallopian tube obstruction can occur due to pelvic adhesions.
Causes of fallopian tube obstruction cannot be prevented but can be reduced by proper measures. For instance, by using a condom during sex, one can reduce the risk of STIs.
What are the common symptoms of fallopian tube obstruction?
The most common symptoms of fallopian tube obstruction are listed below:
- Abdominal or pelvic pain
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Pelvic infection
- Painful urination
- Lower back pain
- Frequent bladder infections
- Pain during intercourse
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
Fallopian tube obstruction can vary from mild to regular pain on one side of the abdomen. This is when the woman should go in for a checkup to ensure everything is normal. It mostly happens in hydrosalpinx, a type of blockage. Here, fluid gets filled up and enlarges an existing blocked fallopian tube.
When should one visit a doctor?
If someone has any symptoms of fallopian tube obstruction, then they should see a doctor as soon as possible. Fallopian tube obstruction can cause fertility problems, so getting it diagnosed and treated early is important. Symptoms of fallopian tube obstruction include pelvic pain, abnormal menstrual bleeding, and difficulty getting pregnant.
If these symptoms are observed, it is recommended to visit a doctor on a priority basis.
Treatment of fallopian tube obstruction
Fallopian tube obstruction is a common cause of infertility. There are several ways to treat this condition, depending on the cause.
Surgery may be necessary to remove the blockage if the obstruction is due to a blockage, such as a scar tissue or a tumour. If the obstruction is due to a structural problem, such as a malformed uterus, surgery may be needed to correct the problem.
In some cases, medications may be used to dissolve the blockage or to shrink the size of the obstruction. In other cases, fertility treatments, such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF), may be necessary.
The treatment of fallopian tube obstruction will vary depending on the cause and the severity of the obstruction. However, with treatment, many women with this condition can become pregnant and have healthy babies.
Conclusion:
Fallopian tube obstruction is a serious condition that can have various causes. Women must be aware of the symptoms and take action if they experience them. If someone is experiencing symptoms of fallopian tube obstruction, they should consult a doctor to get the right diagnosis and treatment. Taking proper preventive measures can help reduce the risk of fallopian tube obstruction.
If only one side of the fallopian tube is blocked, it will not cause any trouble for the female. Consulting a doctor for medications would be preferably a better option.
A blocked fallopian tube leads to infertility in most cases. A blocked fallopian tube obstructs the egg and sperm from meeting, making it impossible for fertility.
In most cases, blocked fallopian tubes can be reopened.
According to researchers, there is no evidence to prove that blocked fallopian tubes will open naturally. But, an exception comes to manual pelvic physical therapy.
