Obstruction of the fallopian tubes is one of the common causes of female infertility, with nearly one-third of cases attributed to this issue. When both tubes are blocked and filled with fluid (a condition known as hydrosalpinx), the recommended approach to prevent ectopic pregnancy and increase the chances of a healthy pregnancy is surgical removal or clipping of the tubes, followed by IVF.
But what happens if only one tube is affected and had to be removed? Can the remaining, functional tube do its job? In other words, can you conceive naturally if you only have one healthy fallopian tube?
In theory, the answer is straightforward: there is approximately a 50% chance of natural conception if the remaining tube is permeable and the ovary on that side functions normally.
Studies indicate that women in optimal reproductive age (22–28 years) have over an 80% chance of conceiving naturally and delivering a healthy baby within three years, even with only one functioning tube.
However, this percentage is influenced by many female and male factors. Additionally, the absence of one tube may delay conception, since ovulation does not always occur on the same side each month.
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If you are over 30 and have been trying to conceive naturally for a year with just one healthy tube, there is a greater than 95% probability that another, undiagnosed infertility factor is present.
The fallopian tubes are just one component of the complex system required for achieving a successful pregnancy.
Factors that may influence the success or failure of achieving a healthy pregnancy include:
- Egg and sperm quantity and quality (correlated with age and lifestyle)
- Endometrial thickness
- Gynecological conditions (endometriosis, adenomyosis, fibroids, polyps, large ovarian cysts, ovarian torsion, adhesions, PCOS, etc.)
- Uterine malformations
- Ovulatory disorders
- Thrombophilia
- Autoimmune diseases
- Thyroid disorders
- Various infections
- Hormonal imbalances
Therefore, it is advisable to seek evaluation from a fertility specialist, especially if you are over 30 or have a history of recurrent miscarriages.
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