Blockage within the fallopian tubes due to scarring or damage can make conception difficult. Sperm is unable to fertilize the egg or the fertilized eggs are can’t travel through the tubes to the uterus for implantation.
Possible Causes of Damaged or Abnormal Fallopian Tubes
- Endometriosis
- Sexually transmitted infections (STI) or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Previous C-section
- Tubal ligation
Diagnosis
Dye is injected in the uterus with a catheter inserted through the cervix during a test called a hysterosalpingogram (HSG). The dye passing through the fallopian tubes is confirmation that there is no blockage. The dye will not pass through blocked or misshapen tubes. Occasionally, laparoscopic surgery is required to make an accurate diagnosis.
Medical Therapy
Laparoscopic surgery is used to remove scar tissue and reconstruct the area for normal function. In vitro fertilization (IVF) is an option to attain pregnancy when there is a great amount of scar tissue or damage to the tubes.