Tubal Infertility
May 03, 2012
There are many different causes of female infertility, one of which is damage to the fallopian tubes. This condition is sometimes referred to as “tubal infertility.” Your fallopian tubes have the important function of transporting the egg from the ovary to the uterus. When the fallopian tubes are damaged or blocked, they can prevent sperm from getting to the egg or can close off the passage of the fertilized egg into the uterus. Causes of fallopian tube damage can include the following: inflammation (salpingitis) due to gonorrhea or chlamydia, Endometriosis, Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), previous ectopic pregnancy or previous surgery in the pelvic region or abdomen. If your fallopian tubes have become blocked or damaged, it may prevent you from becoming pregnant.
If your fertility physician suspects that your infertility may be due to problems with the fallopian tubes, he or she may prescribe either a Hysterosalpingogram or a Hysteroscopy to help diagnose the problem. A Hysterosalpingogram is a procedure in which a small amount of radio-opaque fluid is injected into the uterus and fallopian tubes and then visualized with x-rays to examine these structures. A Hysteroscopy is a visual examination of the uterus and uterine lining using an endoscope inserted through the vagina.
These two tests are just two out of a much larger group of diagnostic tests that can be used to help determine the root cause of female infertility. If you have been unable to achieve pregnancy and suspect it may be due to problems with your fallopian tubes, talk to a qualified OBGYN in your local area about these and other diagnostic tests.
Posted on behalf of Dr. Carlos Alarcon, Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates, P.A.