Fallopian tubes: what are they and what is their importance?
The fallopian tubes, also called salpingi, are two equal and symmetrical tubular organs, which take their name from their Italian discoverer, the anatomist Gabriele Falloppio. These ducts are closely involved in the stages of ovulation and fertilization, so before we understand better what their importance is, we want to show you a video that will be useful especially if you are trying to become a mother: how to calculate fertile days and increase the chances of conceiving and become parents?
The anatomy of the fallopian tubes
The fallopian tubes are two hollow organs belonging to the female genital apparatus, they are about 7-8 cm long, with a diameter ranging from 1 to 2mm. Each fallopian tube is fixed to the sides of the upper part of the uterus, while from the the opposite side is connected with the ovary, wrapping it like a funnel.
There are two fallopian tubes: the first connects the uterus to the right ovary and the second connects the uterine cavity to the left ovary. They can ideally be divided into four portions:
- the section closest to the ovaries is called infundibulum;
- the longest part (called ampullate), of about 6-7 centimeters, regulates the transit of gametes and embryos by means of contractions and subsequent releases;
- there isthmic part, it is a portion about 2 - 3 centimeters long, it is almost straight and thin;
- finally, the shortest section is the intramural part, the point where the fallopian tube meets the uterine cavity.
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Fallopian tubes: the main functions
The main function of the fallopian tubes is to collect the egg cell produced by the ovary and channel it towards the uterus where the possible fertilization and implantation of the embryo will take place. Just during the journey between the ovary and the uterus, the egg cell has the ability to be fertilized by a sperm, so the environment of the tube is critical to achieving this.
For these reasons, some women who are not interested in having children decide to undergo a small surgery to close or seal the fallopian tubes by ligation: in this way the spermatozoa will be prevented from passing and consequently also fertilization will not be able to take place.
All pathologies affecting the fallopian tubes
The fallopian tubes can be blocked or damaged, as well as affected by a series of anomalies that can block the passage of sperm and thus prevent fertilization.
To identify the problem, doctors may use an x-ray with the help of a contrast agent; or they may perform an ultrasound after injecting saline into the uterus. Finally, they may use the laparoscope to view organs through an incision. just below the navel.
In case of a pathological anomaly in the fallopian tubes, there are effective remedies that we will see later.
If the tubes are blocked or damaged, the causes are to be found in:
- pelvic infections
- use of an intrauterine device such as the IUD
- broken appendix
- surgery in the pelvic or lower abdominal area
- inflammation that damages the uterus and fallopian tubes
- ectopic pregnancy in the fallopian tubes
Often the main culprits are bacteria, which can enter the vagina during sexual intercourse with a partner who has a sexually transmitted disease, and from there spread by infecting the cervix and fallopian tubes. Some bacteria such as chlamydia can infect the fallopian tubes without causing any symptoms. These infections can also cause permanent damage to the uterus and surrounding tissues. Scar tissue can form, obstructing the normal passage of the egg and sperm cells.
Sometimes, some factors can prevent the implantation of the egg in the uterus. Let's see which are the main ones:
- congenital defects of the uterus or fallopian tubes
- endometriosis
- fibroids or polyps in the uterus
- presence of scar tissue formed inside the tubes
Fallopian tubes: how to make the diagnosis
What to do to determine if the fallopian tubes are blocked? You can proceed with:
- hysterosapingography
- echysterography
- laparoscopy
- hysteroscopy.
The last two methods mentioned, laparoscopy and hysteroscopy, have the advantage that diagnosis and treatment can be performed simultaneously. They are performed after the injection through the cervix of a contrast agent that outlines the inside of the uterus and fallopian tubes.
Hysterosalpingography is the most effective method for investigating any tubal pathologies. Furthermore, after this examination, fertility appears slightly improved, because the procedure allows for temporary dilation of the tubes and the elimination of the mucus present.
Echohysterography is rapid and does not require anesthesia, it is also safer than hysterosalpingography, because it does not require radiation or injection of contrast media. It is used to identify and / or further evaluate problems related to the fallopian tubes and other abnormalities of the pelvis. During the examination, a saline solution is injected into the uterus through the cervix, in order to stretch the inside of the uterus and more easily observe any abnormalities. If the solution enters the tubes, there is no obstruction.
If tubal obstruction is suspected, a small probe is inserted into the pelvic cavity through a small incision just below the navel. Generally, the procedure is performed under general anesthesia and allows direct observation of the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries.
If an abnormality is detected inside the uterus, doctors examine the uterine cavity with a probe inserted into the uterus through the vagina and cervix. If adhesions are found, a polyp or a small fibroid can be removed immediately, increasing the chances of future pregnancy.
Sometimes a blood test is enough to look for antibodies against chlamydia; the presence of these antibodies reveals a previous chlamydial infection, which can lead to infertility consequences.
Fallopian tubes: effective treatments in case of anomalies
Treatment of fallopian tube or pelvic problems depends on their cause. Sometimes scar tissue is moved or removed in the course of diagnosis. If the uterus abnormalities are resolved during hysteroscopy, it will be much easier to get pregnant.
It is possible to perform surgery to repair a damaged fallopian tube, but keep in mind that after a normal pregnancy the chances of a normal pregnancy are greatly reduced. Consequently, all couples who want to become parents are recommended to resort to in vitro fertilization.
