Tubal Factor Infertility
Healthy fallopian tubes are essential for natural conception. These slender structures connect the ovaries to the uterus and serve as the site of fertilization—where egg and sperm meet. When one or both fallopian tubes are damaged, blocked, or missing, it can prevent pregnancy from occurring.
Tubal factor infertility accounts for up to 30% of female infertility diagnoses. The good news: it’s often treatable, and many patients are able to conceive with the right fertility support.
What is tubal factor infertility?
Tubal factor infertility refers to any condition that prevents the fallopian tubes from functioning properly. This includes:
- Blocked tubes, which prevent the egg and sperm from meeting
- Damaged or scarred tubes, which impair movement or increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy
- Hydrosalpinx, a condition where the tube is swollen and filled with fluid, which can reduce the chance of successful embryo implantation
- Prior bilateral tubal ligations or fallopian tube removal surgeries for sterilization
Tubal issues may affect one or both tubes and may not cause noticeable symptoms on their own.
What causes tubal factor infertility?
Fallopian tubes can be damaged by a variety of factors, including:
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) from untreated infections
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia or gonorrhea
- Previous pelvic or abdominal surgery, including surgery for appendicitis or endometriosis
- Ectopic pregnancy, which can damage the affected tube
- Tubal ligation (having your tubes tied), if fertility is being reconsidered later in life
Even minor scarring or blockage can impact fertility, making testing a key part of the diagnostic process.
How tubal factor infertility affects fertility
If the fallopian tubes are blocked or not functioning properly, the egg and sperm cannot meet—making natural conception nearly impossible. In addition:
- A hydrosalpinx can leak fluid into the uterus, interfering with embryo implantation
- Damaged tubes may increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy, where the embryo implants outside the uterus
Once diagnosed, tubal factor infertility can often be bypassed or corrected with fertility treatments.
How tubal factor infertility is diagnosed
Your fertility specialist may recommend imaging tests to assess the health of your fallopian tubes. These include:
- Hysterosalpingogram (HSG): A specialized X-ray that uses contrast dye to visualize the uterus and fallopian tubes
- Saline sonogram (SIS): Uses ultrasound and saline to assess the uterine cavity and sometimes the tubal openings
- Laparoscopy: A minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows direct visualization of the tubes and surrounding pelvic structures
These tests help determine whether the tubes are open, blocked, or damaged—and guide treatment planning accordingly.
Treatment options for tubal factor infertility
The best treatment depends on the severity of the blockage and your reproductive goals. Options may include:
- Surgical repair of mild blockages or adhesions in select cases
- Removal of a hydrosalpinx to improve IVF success rates
- In vitro fertilization (IVF), which bypasses the fallopian tubes entirely by fertilizing eggs in the lab and transferring embryos directly into the uterus
IVF is often the most effective approach for moderate to severe tubal damage and may also reduce the risk of ectopic pregnancy.
IVF Florida offers advanced testing and proven treatment options to help patients with tubal factor infertility build their families—with clarity, confidence, and expert care.
From our very first consultation with Dr. Kari Von Goeben, we were completely convinced. We felt an emotional connection that we’d never experienced elsewhere – there was genuine care, compassion, and excellent guidance. She carefully analyzed our medical history and gave us invaluable insights we hadn’t been aware of. With her expert advice and treatment, we are now two weeks pregnant and incredibly blessed!