The fallopian tubes transfer eggs released by the ovaries to the uterus. This is accomplished through peristaltic muscle contractions, waving cilia (hair) and enzyme rich fluid. This transport is controlled by the nervous and hormonal systems.

The fallopian tubes are the site of egg fertilization by sperm.

What blocks passage through the Fallopian tubes?

• Congential or birth defects can compromise passage of the egg and/or sperm through the fallopian tubes. These include aplasia, the complete absence of fallopian tubes and hypoplasia, the occurrence of long, narrow and twisting fallopian tubes.
• Most blockages are the result of infection, scarring, or growths.
• Salpingitis isthmica nodosa (SIN) is a thickening of a portion of tubal walls.
• Neoplasms are benign tumors and growths that compromise the fallopian tubes.

Endometriosis is specialized uterine tissue that ends up growing and thickening in areas other than the uterus including the fallopian tubes.

Ectopic pregnancies occur when fertilized eggs implant in the fallopian tubes rather than the uterus. This dangerous occurrence can sometimes go unnoticed and the resultant scarring can block fallopian tube passages.

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) accounts for 20 percent to 25 percent of tubal blockages. Microorganisms can find their way into the fallopian tubes after some compromise of the cervical barrier has occurred such as: venereal disease, miscarriage, abortion, difficult childbirth, and intrauterine conception devices.

Battling these infections causes scarring of the fallopian tube walls.

Symptoms of fallopian tube blockage

In cases of scarring or growth that produce torsion, a twisting of the fallopian tubes, pelvic pain, nausea, and vomiting may be experienced.

For the most part, blockages remain undetected until infertility or some other issue warrants the utilization of laporoscopy or hysterosalpingogram.

Laporoscopy involves a small incision in the abdomen through which a lighted viewing device is inserted to check the pelvic cavity.

Hysterosalpingogram is the use of x-ray equipment and a dye to track the passage of the liquid through the fallopian tubes. Ob Gyn.

Author Resource:

Looking for a Virginia Beach obstetrician or Chesapeake obstetrician? Atlantic OB-GYN provides cost-effective, quality health care and infertility services to individuals and families. Article written by Daniel Beasley.

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