Blocked Fallopian Tubes

What Do Fallopian Tubes Do?

Fallopian tubes are essential structures in the female reproductive system that connect the ovaries to the uterus. Each month during ovulation, a mature egg is released from the ovary and captured by the fallopian tube.

This is where fertilization typically occurs, when sperm meets egg inside the tube. After fertilization, the resulting embryo travels through the fallopian tube and implants into the uterine lining, where pregnancy begins.

When fallopian tubes are healthy and open, they play a critical role in natural conception.

What Are Blocked Fallopian Tubes?

Blocked fallopian tubes (also called tubal occlusion or tubal factor infertility) occur when one or both tubes are partially or completely obstructed.

When this happens, it can prevent:

Sperm from reaching the egg
Fertilization from occurring
The embryo from traveling to the uterus

According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), tubal disease accounts for approximately 25%–35% of female infertility cases.

In some cases, blocked tubes can also increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy, a potentially serious condition where an embryo implants outside the uterus.

Symptoms of Blocked Fallopian Tubes

Most women with blocked fallopian tubes have no noticeable symptoms.
In fact, many only discover the condition after trying to conceive without success.

Possible signs of blocked fallopian tubes may include:

Difficulty getting pregnant
Mild, persistent pelvic or abdominal pain (sometimes with hydrosalpinx)
History of pelvic infections or endometriosis

Because blocked fallopian tube symptoms are often absent, fertility testing is essential for diagnosis.

What Causes Blocked Fallopian Tubes?

Blocked fallopian tubes typically result from inflammation, infection, or scarring.
Common causes include:

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
Sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhea
Endometriosis
Previous abdominal or pelvic surgery
Ruptured appendix
Prior ectopic pregnancy
Tubal ligation (sterilization)
Hydrosalpinx (fluid-filled, swollen fallopian tube)

These conditions can lead to scar tissue formation, which may partially or completely block the tubes.

Can You Get Pregnant With Blocked Fallopian Tubes?

It depends on whether one or both tubes are affected.

One blocked tube: Pregnancy may still occur naturally if the other tube is open
Both tubes blocked: Natural conception is typically not possible
Partial blockage: Pregnancy may occur, but the risk of ectopic pregnancy is higher

If tubal function is significantly impaired, assisted reproductive technologies such as IVF are often recommended.

How Are Blocked Fallopian Tubes Diagnosed?

There are several ways to evaluate fallopian tube health:

Patented Parryscope® Fertility Testing

At Positive Steps Fertility, we offer the breakthrough Parryscope®, an advanced in-office diagnostic procedure developed by Dr. Preston Parry.

This 15-minute evaluation can assess:

Fallopian tube patency
Uterine health
Ovarian reserve indicators

Unlike traditional HSG testing, Parryscope® is designed to be less painful, radiation-free, and more comprehensive, providing rapid insights into female fertility health.

Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)

An HSG uses X-ray imaging and contrast dye to determine whether the tubes are open. While commonly used, it can be uncomfortable and may not always provide definitive results.

Sonosalpingography

This ultrasound-based test uses saline and air to evaluate tubal patency but is not widely available and may have limitations in accuracy.

Laparoscopy

A minimally invasive surgical procedure considered the most accurate method. It allows direct visualization of the fallopian tubes but requires anesthesia and recovery time.

Fertility Treatment Options for Blocked Fallopian Tubes

Fertility treatment depends on the severity and location of the blockage.

Fallopian Tube Recanalization (FTR)

A minimally invasive procedure used to open certain types of tubal blockages.

Laparoscopic Surgery

Can remove scar tissue or adhesions and restore tubal function in select cases.

Fimbrioplasty or Salpingostomy

Surgical procedures that repair or reconstruct the end of the fallopian tube to improve function.

Salpingectomy

Removal of a severely damaged fallopian tube, often recommended in cases of hydrosalpinx.

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

IVF bypasses the fallopian tubes entirely and is often the most effective fertility treatment for severe tubal infertility.

IVF for Blocked Fallopian Tubes

When fallopian tubes are severely damaged or completely blocked, IVF is often the most effective option for achieving pregnancy.

IVF allows:

Fertilization to occur in a laboratory
Embryos to develop outside the body
Direct transfer into the uterus

This bypasses the fallopian tubes completely, making it a highly effective treatment for tubal factor infertility.

When Should You See a Fertility Specialist for Blocked Fallopian Tubes?

You should seek evaluation for blocked fallopian tubes if:

You have been trying to conceive for 12 months (or 6 months if over age 35)
You have a history of pelvic infection or endometriosis
You have had prior abdominal or tubal surgery
You suspect fertility issues or have irregular cycles

Early fertility evaluation can significantly improve infertility treatment outcomes.

Why Choose Positive Steps Fertility in Mississippi and Louisiana?

At Positive Steps Fertility, we provide advanced diagnostics and comprehensive fertility treatment options for tubal factor infertility. Our leading fertility clinic offers: