What causes blocked fallopian tubes?

The fallopian tubes carry an egg from an ovary toward the womb. Pelvic inflammatory disease can inflame the reproductive organs and leave scar tissue that narrows or closes a tube. Endometriosis may cause inflammation, adhesions, or tissue around the tube that interferes with its movement. Previous pelvic or abdominal surgery, a prior infection, or a pregnancy that developed in a tube can also contribute to scarring. Blockage may affect one tube or both, and it does not always cause noticeable pain or other symptoms.

Discuss fertility assessment if pregnancy has not happened after trying, or sooner if you have a history of pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, pelvic surgery, or an ectopic pregnancy. Testing may use an imaging study in which fluid outlines the womb and tubes, or another procedure recommended by a fertility specialist. Bring details of prior infections, operations, pelvic pain, and pregnancy history. Treatment depends on the site and extent of blockage, other fertility factors, and your pregnancy goals.

Blocked tubes themselves are usually found during fertility assessment rather than an emergency visit. Seek urgent care during a possible pregnancy for one-sided pelvic pain, shoulder-tip pain, faintness, or bleeding, because a pregnancy in a tube can become dangerous. Arrange prompt review for fever, worsening pelvic pain, or unusual discharge, which can indicate active infection.

Could past pelvic inflammatory disease or endometriosis have affected my tubes? Which test will show whether one or both tubes are open? How might the finding affect pregnancy planning? What symptoms need urgent attention in a future pregnancy?