40w LaterGuide

First, where are the fallopian tubes?

The fallopian tubes connect the ovaries and the uterus. After ovulation, the egg enters a fallopian tube, and fertilization usually takes place there when the egg meets sperm. You can think of the fallopian tubes as an important pathway for conception.

What happens if a fallopian tube is blocked?

If a fallopian tube is blocked, it may be more difficult for the egg and sperm to meet, which can reduce the chance of pregnancy.

If both fallopian tubes are completely blocked, natural conception is very unlikely because the egg and sperm cannot meet through the usual pathway. In many cases, in vitro fertilization (IVF) is considered because fertilization takes place outside the body and the embryo is then transferred directly into the uterus.

However, treatment depends on where and why the tubes are blocked, and in selected cases surgical treatment may also be discussed.

If only one fallopian tube is open, natural pregnancy is still possible. Pregnancy chances may be lower than when both tubes are open, but ovulation does not always have to occur on the same side as the open tube. Sometimes the open fallopian tube can pick up an egg released from the opposite ovary.

How are the fallopian tubes checked?

Common tests include hysterosalpingography (HSG) and hysterosalpingo-contrast sonography (HyCoSy).

HSG involves introducing contrast material through the cervix and taking X-ray images to see whether the contrast passes through the fallopian tubes.

HyCoSy uses ultrasound together with a contrast solution or microbubbles introduced into the uterus to check whether fluid passes through the tubes.

These tests are usually performed before ovulation, after menstrual bleeding has finished. The exact timing and preparation, including whether fasting is needed, depend on the clinic and the test used.

How is it treated?

Treatment depends on whether one or both tubes are affected and on the cause and location of the blockage.

If both tubes are completely blocked, IVF is often the most effective treatment option because it bypasses the fallopian tubes.

If only one tube is blocked and there are no other major fertility problems, natural conception or fertility treatment such as ovulation induction or intrauterine insemination (IUI) may still be considered before moving to IVF.

What if there is hydrosalpinx?

A hydrosalpinx is a fallopian tube that is blocked and filled with fluid. This condition can reduce the chance of implantation and may lower IVF success rates because fluid from the affected tube can flow back into the uterus and interfere with the endometrial environment.

For this reason, if hydrosalpinx is present and IVF is planned, surgery to remove or block the affected tube may be considered before treatment.

However, surgery also has its own risks, including complications and the possibility of postoperative adhesions, so the decision should be made individually with a fertility specialist.