The fallopian tubes play a critical role in female fertility as they allow the egg to be transported from the ovary to the uterus. However, when these structures are altered, conception can be affected. One of the most common conditions that compromise its functioning is hydrosalpinx, a condition in which the tubes fill with fluid and can become dysfunctional.
Hydrosalpinx is a common cause of fertility problems, although many women are unaware that they have it until they try to conceive without success. It is estimated that between 10% and 30% of women with tubal problems have this condition, which highlights the importance of early diagnosis.
Understanding what hydrosalpinx is, why it occurs, and how it can affect fertility is essential to making informed treatment decisions. With advances in reproductive medicine, there are options to overcome this condition and achieve a successful pregnancy with the help of specialists.
How to detect hydrosalpinx?
Hydrosalpinx is a condition in which one or both fallopian tubes fill with fluid due to an obstruction at its distal end, preventing communication with the uterus. As a result, the tubes dilate and lose their ability to carry the egg, making it difficult to conceive naturally.
Many women with hydrosalpinx have no symptoms, making their diagnosis incidental during fertility studies. However, in some cases, signs such as:
- Chronic or intermittent pelvic pain
- Abnormal vaginal discharge
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Discomfort during sexual intercourse
The diagnosis is made by tests such as hysterosalpingogram (HSG), an X-ray test with contrast dye that allows the patency of the tubes to be evaluated. Transvaginal ultrasound and laparoscopy can also be used, the latter being a surgical procedure that allows the tubal structure to be directly visualized.
Why is hydrosalpinx produced?
There are several causes that can lead to the formation of hydrosalpinx, the most common being:
- Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs): Infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhea can cause inflammation and blockage in the tubes.
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): It is one of the main culprits of tubal damage and can lead to fluid accumulation.
- Previous pelvic surgeries: Surgical procedures in the abdominal area can generate adhesions that block the tubes.
- Endometriosis: Abnormal growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus can affect tubal function.
- Previous ectopic pregnancy: In some cases, the tubes can be damaged after an ectopic pregnancy, predisposing to the development of hydrosalpinx.
Understanding the underlying cause is key to determining the best therapeutic approach and avoiding future reproductive health complications.
Is it possible to get pregnant with hydrosalpinx?
Women with hydrosalpinx may have difficulty conceiving naturally due to the blockage and accumulation of fluid in the tubes. In addition, it has been shown that the accumulated fluid can be toxic to embryos, reducing implantation rates even in in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures.
The chances of pregnancy depend on the severity of the hydrosalpinx and whether it affects one or both tubes. In cases where the condition is unilateral and the other tube remains healthy, natural pregnancy is still possible, albeit with reduced rates. However, when both tubes are affected, in vitro fertilization is the most viable option, with success rates that can reach between 40% and 60% per cycle when proper treatment is performed.
Although the diagnosis of hydrosalpinx can be challenging for women who want to conceive, but it does not mean that pregnancy is impossible. With the guidance of assisted reproduction specialists, it is possible to find the right treatment for each case. At Fertivida, we have a team of experts who offer accompaniment and personalized solutions to help women fulfill their desire to be mothers, providing options such as in vitro fertilization and tubal surgery when necessary.
