We all know that the fallopian tubes are crucial for female fertility, and once blocked, they can affect a woman’s ability to conceive. As the name suggests, the “fallopian tubes” are the duct system that transports eggs. Normally, women have two fallopian tubes, each located on either side of the uterus. The proximal end opens into the uterine cavity at the uterine angle, while the distal end opens into the abdominal cavity and has finger-like structures for picking up eggs. Does hydrosalpinx affect fertility? How is it treated?
Does hydrosalpinx affect fertility?
Answer: Definitely affected
1. Hydrosalpinx contains microorganisms, tissue fragments, lymphocytes, and other toxic substances, which can impact the normal function of sperm and eggs. Putting mouse sperm in hydrosalpinx for incubation significantly reduces their fertilization capacity. Additionally, under the influence of hydrosalpinx, the embryo’s morphological score decreases.
2. Retrograde flow of hydrosalpinx into the uterine cavity can lead to failed embryo implantation due to flushing action.
3. Toxic substances in hydrosalpinx entering the uterine cavity can directly cause toxicity or result in endometritis, reducing endometrial receptivity.
4. Chronic inflammation during hydrosalpinx may affect the ovaries or compress ovarian blood vessels, impacting ovarian blood supply, ovarian reserve function, and response to medications for ovulation induction. Hydrosalpinx not only affects natural conception but also the success rate of in vitro fertilization. Studies show that in patients with hydrosalpinx, the post-transplant success rate is 60% lower than those without hydrosalpinx, with a doubled rate of spontaneous abortion.
Therefore, for women preparing for pregnancy, if hydrosalpinx is detected, prompt treatment is recommended.
How is hydrosalpinx treated?
If it is in the inflammatory stage, medication can be used. However, when the fallopian tubes are damaged or diseased, the effect of drug treatment is limited, and surgical intervention is necessary. Surgical procedures such as fallopian tube imaging, color Doppler ultrasound, etc., are needed to determine the location and cause of the lesion and whether there is hydrosalpinx before surgery.
1. Laparoscopic surgery
When the damage is mild and most of the fallopian tube is normal, laparoscopic surgery can be performed. This procedure yields good results and significantly improves the success rate of pregnancy.
2. Laparoscopic unblocking
Blockage may be due to debris, shed cells, or blood clots in the tube; overly thin and curved tubes; or adhesions between the tubes and pelvic wall or nearby organs limiting tube movement. Laparoscopic unblocking can be performed. For external adhesions, laparoscopy can be used to release them, freeing the fallopian tube. With treatment, most patients can conceive.
If a woman experiences hydrosalpinx, timely treatment is crucial. There are several methods for treating hydrosalpinx, including medication and surgery. The appropriate treatment method will be chosen based on the patient’s specific condition. In conclusion, hydrosalpinx is a common gynecological condition that significantly impacts women’s fertility.
