The fallopian tubes are an important part of a woman's reproductive organs; a blockage in the fallopian tubes prevent the fertilized egg from moving to the uterus for implantation. Even though the fallopian tube is blocked, a few sperm can get through and fertilization is possible. The causes of a blocked fallopian tube can be an ongoing problem, like fibroids, or a past condition, like an ectopic pregnancy. Different treatment options are available where women still have the option to become pregnant, though surgery does have an added risk.
Causes
The cause of a blocked fallopian tube can be due to an ongoing condition or a previous condition, according to an article in The Merck Manuals Online Library. Previous conditions that can result in a blocked fallopian tube include pelvic infections, intrauterine device use that leads to a pelvic inflammation, ruptured appendix, surgery in the pelvis or lower abdomen and ectopic pregnancy. Ongoing conditions that can result in a blocked fallopian tube include birth defects that affect the uterus or fallopian tubes, endometriosis, fibroids in the uterus and bands of scar tissue in the uterus or pelvis.
Abnormal Tissue Removal
Dr. Elizabeth Pryor, an obstetrics and gynecology expert for Parents.com, suggests abnormal tissue removal as a treatment option. The doctor can use laparoscopy to see if the tubes are blocked, and continue to use laparoscopy when removing any abnormal tissue. The doctor, using a technique called hysteroscopy, can cut away the abnormal tissue from around the tube, or if necessary, the doctor can make a new opening at the end of the tube.
Surgery
According to Merck, surgery can be done to repair a fallopian tube that has been damaged by an ectopic pregnancy. However, Merck warns that after this surgery, the chances of a normal pregnancy are low, and that the woman is at a higher risk of an ectopic pregnancy. Merck recommends in vitro fertilization if the woman would like to become pregnant in the future.
