Female infertility is caused, in almost one-third of cases, by issues affecting the fallopian tubes, most commonly their blockage or obstruction.

Unfortunately, many women discover this problem only when they try to conceive, fail to do so, and are referred to a fertility specialist who recommends a test called hysterosalpingography.

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The Most Common Causes of Blocked Fallopian Tubes

Imaging may reveal blockage of one or both tubes with fluid — a condition known as hydrosalpinx — which prevents the egg from meeting the sperm. Even if fertilization does occur, the embryo cannot reach the uterus because of the obstruction and instead implants in the diseased tube, resulting in a nonviable ectopic pregnancy.

This fluid buildup is most often the result of sexually transmitted infections (such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis) or recurrent urinary tract infections that were not treated properly.

Other possible causes include:

• Endometriosis
• Uterine fibroids
• Previous appendiceal perforation
• Past ectopic pregnancies
• Previous surgeries (including tubal ligation)
• Infections following surgical abortion

How Tubes Can Be Unblocked and the Real Chances of Success

Many women wonder whether there are alternatives to IVF when they have blocked tubes.

The answer is yes — there are procedures that attempt to unblock the tubes — but fertility specialists no longer recommend these as first-line treatment. The reason is the very low success rate, particularly when both tubes are affected. In most cases, couples eventually require IVF to achieve pregnancy.

Possible interventions include:

• Laparoscopic surgery to remove adhesions
• Antibiotic therapy for recent bacterial infections
• Transvaginal aspiration under ultrasound guidance

Occasionally, during hysterosalpingography, the contrast material may flush the tubes and clear mucus plugs or blood clots, potentially increasing the chance of natural conception — provided no other fertility issues exist.

However, in hydrosalpinx, studies show that even if the fluid is removed temporarily, it quickly reaccumulates. Therefore, the preferred method for achieving pregnancy is IVF, preceded by clipping or surgically removing the affected tubes to eliminate risks and improve implantation success.

IVF bypasses the fallopian tubes entirely, eliminating the risk of ectopic pregnancy, as embryos are transferred directly into the uterus.er.t hematomului. unui specialist în infertilitate, mai ales dacă aveți peste 30 de ani sau un istoric de avorturi recurente.

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Unblocking the Fallopian Tubes

If you have questions related to unblocking the fallopian tubes or would like recommendations on evaluating and monitoring your newborn during the first days of life, you may request an individual consultation at any time. A thorough assessment helps determine the most suitable monitoring and support plan for your child.

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