Navigating the Emotional Rollercoaster of Infertility During the Holidays
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Causes of Tubal Factor Infertility
Tubal factor infertility is blockage or damage that prevents the egg from traveling through the fallopian tube to reach the uterus. There are many causes of tubal factor infertility.
ROLE OF THE FALLOPIAN TUBES IN CONCEPTION
To understand tubal factor infertility, it is important to recognize the role the fallopian tubes play in conception.
Once the ovary releases the egg during ovulation, it is picked up by fimbriae, the finger-like projections at the end of the fallopian tubes. The egg enters the fallopian tube and here, fertilization may occur, if sperm is present. The fertilized egg begins to divide before continuing its journey to the uterus, where in a few days, implantation occurs.
A damaged or blocked fallopian tube can disrupt the conception process and increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy.
CAUSES OF TUBAL FACTOR INFERTILITY
There are a number of ways the fallopian tubes can become damaged, including the following:
- Pelvic infections – women who have a history of sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia or gonorrhea may have damage or blockage of the fallopian tubes. Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) can also lead to
tubal factor infertility - Endometriosis – those who suffer from endometriosis may experience a build-up of scar tissue in the tubes, which can lead to damage and blockage
- Scar tissue from previous surgeries – fallopian tube or pelvic surgery can result in scarring and blockage of the tubes
PREVENTING DAMAGE TO THE FALLOPIAN TUBES
It may not be possible to prevent all damage, but practicing safe sex with proper condom use can reduce the risk of infection and damage.
The majority of women with STIs are asymptomatic, so all sexually active women should be screened regularly for STIs. Early treatment of infections reduces the risk of tubal damage
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