Does this condition make pregnancy impossible?
The fallopian tubes act as transport channels, facilitating the movement of a fertilized egg into the uterus. If something interferes with the egg while moving through the tubes, then pregnancy does not occur. With partial obstruction of the tubes, the risk of ectopic pregnancy increases when a fertilized egg is implanted instead of the uterus into the wall of the fallopian tube, which is extremely dangerous for a woman's health.
If the lumen of the pipe along its entire length is completely blocked, the
diagnosis is tubal infertility. However, in this case, there is a chance to correct the pathology.
Why does it happen?
- Heredity — tubes may be underdeveloped from birth or completely absent.
- Sexually transmitted infections that provoke the appearance of adhesions such as chlamydia, mycoplasmosis, and gonorrhea, especially if these infections are left untreated.
- Failed pelvic surgery or a difficult postoperative period can also provoke the appearance of adhesions.
- Endometriosis and fibroids.
- Hormonal disorders.
When is it time to see a doctor?
Women typically learn about the obstruction of the tubes when they are examined after repeated unsuccessful attempts to conceive a child. This pathology has no specific signs. Several common gynecological symptoms may occur. Women may notice pain in the lower abdomen, irregularities in the menstrual cycle (weak or, conversely, too much bleeding, specific vaginal discharge, or vaginal discomfort).
In principle, it is not easy to diagnose obstruction. First, the doctor conducts a gynecological examination of the patient, where postoperative scars, adhesions, seals, etc. are detected. In the early days of the menstrual cycle, an ultrasound scan is performed. While this does not give a complete picture, it helps highlight indirect signs of the problem.
On days 19–21 of the cycle, hysterosalpingography is performed (the introduction of a radiopaque substance into the uterus and fallopian tubes).
This procedure allows the doctor to diagnose the obstruction and its location. A clinical analysis of blood, urine, and a smear is taken on the vaginal microflora. The procedure is very painful — therefore, if necessary, it is carried out under local anesthesia. The procedure is contraindicated for those with allergies.
Another research method, called echohysterosalpingography, checks the patency of the fallopian tubes by introducing a contrast agent (solution with glucose or saline) with visualization using ultrasound. Fluid moves from the uterus through the tubes to the pelvic area. Obstruction of pipes is diagnosed in places where the solution accumulates.
The final method for diagnosing obstruction of the fallopian tubes is laparoscopy. Having made small punctures, doctors see on the monitor screen how the contrast agent flows from the fallopian tubes into the abdominal cavity. Adhesions found during the procedure are usually removed immediately.
What else should you know?
Obstruction of the fallopian tubes is a serious problem, but modern medicine can successfully treat it and allow a woman to give birth to a healthy baby. The gynecologist will suggest the treatment path, taking into account the results of the diagnosis.
In the beginning, the doctor will try to correct the situation with the help of medications including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, hormonal drugs, and antibiotics. These medications help to relieve inflammation, get rid of pathogenic microorganisms, and promote the resorption of adhesions.
There are also different types of physiotherapy available including electrophoresis, balneotherapy (treatment with mineral waters), and ultrasound therapy.
The most radical and effective method is laparoscopic surgery. During the operation, the pipe gets incised at the site of the obstruction and is then restored with the help of plastics.
