One of the many causes of infertility is tubal disease, in which one or both of the Fallopian tubes becomes blocked or damaged. Usually caused by a history of infection, surgery, or endometriosis, people with tubal disease can achieve a healthy pregnancy with the help of fertility treatment.
Indicators of tubal disease
Scar tissue resulting from endometriosis or abdominal or gynecologic surgery (bowel surgery, cesarean section, ruptured appendix, etc.) can block the egg from entering or traveling down your Fallopian tube to meet the sperm.
Infections, such as chlamydia, can damage the cilia (tiny hairs lining the Fallopian tubes) that help to transport the egg. Without normal cilia, the egg may not meet the sperm, or if an egg becomes fertilized, it may not be able to travel to the uterus. This can result in an ectopic pregnancy, which can further damage your Fallopian tube.
In addition, tubal ligation (having your “tubes tied” to prevent pregnancy) can also leave your Fallopian tubes damaged.
Diagnostic tests for tubal disease
Your medical history and a pelvic exam are necessary for diagnosing tubal disease. However, your physician may need other tests to confirm the diagnosis such as: