Does Hydrotubation Harm the Fallopian Tubes?

In the long journey of trying to conceive, the health of the fallopian tubes is crucial. Hydrotubation, as a common diagnostic and therapeutic procedure, often raises concerns among many women: Does hydrotubation harm the fallopian tubes?

Hydrotubation primarily checks whether the fallopian tubes are open, but it also has some therapeutic effects. The procedure involves injecting fluid into the uterine cavity using a catheter. Assessing the fluid's resistance, the amount injected, and the presence of any reflux helps determine the patency of the fallopian tubes. Therefore, if the procedure is not performed correctly, it can cause minor damage to the fallopian tubes or, in rare cases, even lead to tubal rupture.

So, back to our initial question: Does hydrotubation harm the fallopian tubes? The answer is not a simple yes or no.

On the positive side, hydrotubation itself has a specific diagnostic value. It helps doctors preliminarily understand the patency of the fallopian tubes and provides essential reference information for subsequent treatments. Moreover, if there are minor adhesions or blockages in the fallopian tubes, the pressure of the injected fluid during hydrotubation may help clear them, thereby improving tubal patency.

Generally speaking, if the indications for hydrotubation are strictly adhered to, there should not be significant harm. However, it is not entirely risk-free. Firstly, the procedure requires instruments to pass through the vagina and cervix into the uterine cavity, which carries a potential risk of infection. Improper operation or inadequate preoperative disinfection may lead to complications such as uterine cavity infection or salpingitis.

Secondly, the accuracy of hydrotubation could be improved. The results for determining the patency of the fallopian tubes may have some errors, sometimes leading to false positives or negatives. Additionally, hydrotubation may cause discomfort for the patient, such as pain and abdominal bloating.

If you have been having regular sexual intercourse for over a year without getting pregnant, it is considered infertility, and you should undergo ovulation and fallopian tube examinations. After undergoing hydrotubation, it is advised not to conceive immediately. A period of recovery is necessary before planning sexual intercourse and conception.

Furthermore, hydrotubation may cause inflammation of the fallopian tubes, leading to blockage and resulting in ectopic pregnancy. Therefore, if there is a delay in menstruation, it is essential to check for intrauterine or ectopic pregnancy. If both fallopian tubes are severely affected, in vitro fertilization may be considered.

Patients must be well-prepared before the procedure to reduce the risks associated with hydrotubation.

Women with infertility or mild inflammatory adhesions in the fallopian tubes can undergo hydrotubation. It is essential to rule out contraindications before the procedure and to perform hydrotubation 3 to 7 days after the menstrual period ends. Preoperative tests, such as routine vaginal discharge and blood tests, should be conducted to ensure the body is in a suitable condition for hydrotubation. Sterile techniques during the procedure are crucial to prevent infection.

In daily life, if there is a fallopian tube blockage, it can be treated through laparoscopic surgery, hysteroscopic surgery, or conservatively with medication like Fuyan Pill. If the patient does not need childbirth, it is essential to use contraceptive measures during intercourse to avoid unintended pregnancy. Additionally, maintaining personal hygiene, regularly cleaning the vulva, and frequently changing underwear are necessary to prevent the growth of bacteria and the occurrence of gynecological inflammation.

In conclusion, hydrotubation as a medical procedure has its value and limitations. Patients should have thorough discussions with their doctors, weighing the pros and cons and making informed decisions based on their situations. Meanwhile, doctors should strictly follow operational guidelines to minimize any adverse effects of hydrotubation and support the patient's journey toward conception.

You may also be interested in:

What Should You Do About Hydrotubation?

Is There A Big Side Effect When Receiving Hydrotubation?

Is Hydrotubation Effective in the Treatment of Tubal Blockage?