Fallopian tube obstruction is a major cause of female infertility. Blocked fallopian tubes are unable to let the ovum and the sperm converge, thus making fertilization impossible. Fallopian Tubes are also known as oviducts, uterine tubes, and salpinges (singular salpinx).

The fallopian tubes are part of the female reproductive system. There are two fallopian tubes in the female body, with one being located on each side of the uterus. The egg moves through the fallopian tube during a woman's reproductive cycle each month on its way to the uterus from the ovary. Sometimes, the egg gets stuck in the tube, causing a blockage. This blockage is referred to as a fallopian tube obstruction and is a common reason for female infertility.

What causes fallopian tube obstruction?

Most commonly a tube may be obstructed due to infection such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). The rate of tubal infertility has been reported to be 12% after one, 23% after two, and 53% after three episodes of PID. The Fallopian tubes may also be occluded or disabled by endometritis, infections after childbirth and intraabdominal infections including appendicitis and peritonitis. The formation of adhesions may not necessarily block a fallopian tube, but render it dysfunctional by distorting or separating it from the ovary. It has been reported that women with distal tubal occlusion have a higher rate of HIV infection.

Fallopian tubes may be blocked as a method of contraception. In these situations tubes tend to be healthy and typically patients requesting the procedure had children. Tubal ligation is considered a permanent procedure.

What are the symptoms of fallopian tube obstruction?

A fallopian tube obstruction does not normally have any symptoms, although some women may experience abdominal discomfort or an abnormal vaginal discharge. Women suffering from reproductive disorders such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease may be at a greater risk of developing a fallopian tube obstruction. Other potential causes of a fallopian tube obstruction include various sexually transmitted diseases, a ruptured appendix, or a previous history of ectopic pregnancy.

If infertility becomes an issue due to a fallopian tube obstruction, there are some potential options that may help to restore fertility. In cases where only one tube is blocked, doctors may suggest waiting a while before attempting any invasive procedures aimed at clearing the obstruction. Many women with only one blocked tube will still be able to conceive naturally. If infertility continues to be an issue or if symptoms are present and bothersome, other methods of treatment may be considered. The herbal medicine named Fuyan Pill can be a good choice.