Blocked fallopian tubes (tubal obstruction) are among the most common causes of female infertility, affecting more than 30% of women who have difficulty conceiving. This condition may result from various causes, including untreated infections, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids.

Symptoms may be subtle or mistaken for other issues, such as menstrual-like pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, or irregular menstrual cycles. Many women discover the problem only when they struggle to conceive and undergo fertility testing.

Treatment depends on the cause, location, and severity of the blockage and may range from medication to minimally invasive surgery. When surgical options are limited or ineffective, in vitro fertilization (IVF) is often the most efficient solution. Tubal obstruction is not a definitive barrier to motherhood. With the right treatment and specialist care, many women successfully achieve pregnancy.

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Symptoms of Blocked Fallopian Tubes

The most common sign is the inability to conceive naturally after 6–12 months of unprotected intercourse.

Other symptoms, depending on the underlying cause, may include:

• flank pain
• discomfort during intercourse
• painful urination
• heavy, painful periods
• spotting between periods
• abnormal vaginal discharge with unpleasant odor

A major complication is ectopic pregnancy, a medical emergency due to the risk of internal bleeding. In some cases, even surgical treatment may increase this risk, prompting specialists to recommend IVF depending on maternal age or the type of blockage.

Causes of Blocked Fallopian Tubes

Common causes include:

• pelvic inflammatory disease (often from untreated STIs)
• endometriosis
• ruptured appendix
• uterine fibroids
• previous ectopic pregnancy
• genital tuberculosis
• prior abdominal surgeries

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is made through hysterosalpingography and/or laparoscopy.

Treatment options depend on the obstruction type:

• antibiotics for infections
• laparoscopy for removing small adhesions
• IVF for severe or distal blockages

Pregnancy chances are highest when the blockage is near the uterus and lowest when it is located near the ovaries.

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Fallopian Tubes

If you have questions related to 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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