Information
The fallopian tubes are narrow tubular organs that connect the ovaries to the uterus. In healthy women of childbearing age, an egg travels through them every month, ready to be fertilized. A healthy fallopian tube ensures that the fertilized egg reaches the uterus safely, where it settles and can begin to grow. The patency of the fallopian tubes is therefore essential for pregnancy. If the fallopian tubes are blocked or malfunctioning, the embryo may implant in the wrong place, resulting in an ectopic pregnancy. Blocked fallopian tubes are a cause of infertility. The most common causes of blocked fallopian tubes are inflammation (e.g., inflammation of the ovaries, inflammation of the uterus, chlamydial inflammation), endometriosis, or adhesions after inflammation or previous abdominal surgery.
When do we examine fallopian tube patency?
Fallopian tube abnormalities account for up to 40% of cases of reduced fertility in women. Fallopian tube patency testing is one of the first steps in determining fertility. We usually approach the diagnosis and treatment of infertility after a couple has been trying unsuccessfully to conceive for a year. At the client's request, we can examine the patency of the fallopian tubes earlier. This is particularly appropriate in cases where the client has previously had an ectopic pregnancy.
How the examination is performed
The fallopian tube patency test is a simple outpatient procedure. At the GYN MEDICO clinic, we use the ExEm Foam Kit for the examination. ExEm gel and ExEm water are used to create foam, which is then filled into the fallopian tubes through the uterine cavity. We then take ultrasound images to determine the patency of the fallopian tubes. The resulting images clearly show the contours of the fallopian tubes and uterine cavity. The examination is simple, quick, and very gentle on our clients.
