Can blocked fallopian tubes make it harder to get pregnant?

Fallopian tubes connect the ovaries with the uterus. In a typical cycle, an egg enters a tube, where sperm may meet it; the resulting embryo then travels to the uterus. Scarring, previous pelvic infection, endometriosis, or surgery can narrow or close a tube. One open tube may still allow pregnancy, while both tubes being blocked can make unassisted conception much more difficult. A blockage may cause no noticeable symptoms.

Arrange an appointment with a gynaecologist or fertility specialist if pregnancy has not occurred as expected, especially when you have a history of pelvic infection, endometriosis, or tubal surgery. Assessment may include a medical history, ovulation checks, semen testing, and imaging that shows whether dye passes through the tubes. Treatment depends on the site and cause of the blockage and may include surgery or assisted conception. Do not take antibiotics or fertility medicines without clinical advice.

Seek urgent medical care for severe one-sided pelvic pain, fainting, shoulder-tip pain, or vaginal bleeding after a positive pregnancy test. These symptoms can occur with an ectopic pregnancy, which needs prompt assessment. Contact a clinician soon for fever, worsening pelvic pain, or unusual discharge, particularly after a recent infection or procedure.

Ask: Could my medical history raise the chance of tubal scarring? What test will check whether each tube is open? Are there other fertility factors we should assess? Which treatment fits the location of a blockage, and how would we monitor an early pregnancy?