Blocked fallopian tubes:
Blocked fallopian tubes, also known as tubal occlusion, can be a significant factor in female infertility.
What are Blocked Fallopian Tubes?
Anatomy and Function:
Fallopian tubes are two thin tubes on either side of the uterus. They play a crucial role in reproduction by allowing the egg to travel from the ovaries to the uterus and facilitating the meeting of sperm and egg for fertilization.
Causes of Blocked Fallopian Tubes:
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Infection that causes scarring and blockage.
Endometriosis: Endometrial tissue growth outside the uterus can block or damage the tubes.
Previous Surgeries: Abdominal or pelvic surgeries can lead to adhesions, causing blockages.
Hydrosalpinx: A condition where the tube fills with fluid and becomes blocked.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Infections like chlamydia or gonorrhea can cause scarring and blockages.
Diagnosis at New World Fertility Centre:
- Hysterosalpingography (HSG): An X-ray test where a dye is injected into the uterus and fallopian tubes to check for blockages.
- Laparoscopy: A minimally invasive surgical procedure where a camera is inserted through a small incision in the abdomen to directly visualize the fallopian tubes and check for blockages or other issues.
- Sonohysterography: An ultrasound-based test where saline is injected into the uterus to provide a clearer view of the uterine cavity and fallopian tubes.
- Blood Tests and STI Screening: To identify infections or other underlying conditions that may have caused the blockage.
Treatment Options:
Tubal Surgery:
Tubal Reanastomosis: Surgical procedure to remove the blocked segment and reconnect the healthy portions.
Fimbrioplasty: Surgical repair of the fimbriae (finger-like projections at the end of the fallopian tubes) to improve their function.
Salpingostomy: Creating a new opening in the fallopian tube if the end closest to the ovary is blocked.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF):
Often recommended if surgery is not successful or feasible. IVF bypasses the fallopian tubes entirely by retrieving eggs directly from the ovaries, fertilizing them in the lab, and transferring the resulting embryos into the uterus.
Antibiotic Therapy:
If an infection is causing the blockage, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the underlying infection.
Management of Underlying Conditions:
Conditions like endometriosis or PID need to be managed alongside treating the tubal blockage.
Success Rates and Considerations:
Surgery vs. IVF: The choice between surgery and IVF depends on various factors, including the extent of the blockage, age, overall fertility health, and personal preferences.
Individualized Care: At New World Fertility Centre, the team provides individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique situation, ensuring the best possible outcomes.
Advanced Technology: The centre is equipped with advanced diagnostic and surgical tools to accurately diagnose and effectively treat blocked fallopian tubes.
