Fallopian Tube Parts

1. Infundibulum
2. Ampulla
3. Isthmus

Fallopian Tube Parts

1. Infundibulum:

Capture of the egg: Fallopian tube parts, the infundibulum is the funnel-shaped outermost part of the fallopian tube. It has finger-like projections called fimbriae. The fimbriae sweep over the ovary during ovulation, helping to capture the released egg from the ovary.

Guiding the egg: The fimbriae guide the captured egg into the opening of the fallopian tube.

2. Ampulla:

Site of fertilization: Fallopian tube parts, the ampulla is the wider, middle portion of the fallopian tube. It is the most common site for fertilization to occur. If sperm is present in the tube during ovulation, the egg and sperm meet in the ampulla, where fertilization takes place.

Nutrient-rich environment: The ampulla provides a suitable environment for the fertilized egg. It contains secretions and nourishing fluids that support the early stages of embryonic development.

3. Isthmus:

Transport and movement: Fallopian tube parts, the isthmus is the narrow, constricted part of the tube that connects to the uterus. Its main function is to facilitate the movement of the fertilized embryo from the fallopian tube to the uterine cavity.

Muscle contractions: The isthmus undergoes peristaltic contractions, which help propel the fertilized embryo towards the uterus.

Functions of Fallopian Tube Parts

Ovum Transport:

• The primary function of the fallopian tube parts is to transport the released egg from the ovary to the uterus.
• After ovulation, the fallopian tubes capture the egg that is released from the ovary’s follicle.
• The fimbriae, finger-like projections at the end of the fallopian tubes, sweep over the ovary to help guide the egg into the tube.

Fertilization:

• If sperm is present in the fallopian tubes, it can meet and fertilize the egg in the ampulla region of the tube.
• The fallopian tubes provide the environment necessary for sperm to swim towards the egg and for fertilization to occur.

Embryo Transport:

• After fertilization, the resulting embryo starts dividing and develops into a multicellular structure called a blastocyst.
• The fallopian tubes provide a nurturing environment for the developing embryo as it moves towards the uterus.
• The cilia lining the fallopian tubes help propel the embryo through peristaltic contractions and the beating motion of the cilia themselves.

Implantation:

• The fallopian tubes also play a role in the initial stages of implantation.
• The embryo continues to develop as it moves through the fallopian tube towards the uterus.
• Once it reaches the uterus, it implants into the thickened and prepared uterine lining to establish pregnancy.

Causes of Fallopian Tube Blockage:

1. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID):

Infections, particularly sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. It can lead to inflammation and scarring in the fallopian tubes, causing blockage.

2. Endometriosis:

Endometriosis, a condition where the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, can affect the fallopian tubes and lead to blockage.

3. Previous surgeries:

Surgeries involving the reproductive organs, such as abdominal or pelvic surgeries, may cause scar tissue that can block the fallopian tubes.

4. Uterine fibroids or other pelvic tumors:

Tumors or growths in the pelvic area may exert pressure on the fallopian tubes, leading to blockage.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Hysterosalpingography (HSG):

This is a diagnostic procedure where a contrast dye is injected into the uterus, and X-rays are taken to detect any blockages in the fallopian tubes.

Laparoscopy:

A minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows the doctor to directly visualize the pelvic organs and identify any blockages or abnormalities. In our Create fertility clinic, there are several specialist for laparoscopy operation.

Fertility medications:

In some cases, medications may be prescribed to stimulate ovulation or promote the release of eggs from the ovaries. This approach is used when the blockage is not complete and the tubes are partially functional.

Tubal surgery:

Surgical procedures like tubal annulations or salpingostomy can be performed to clear the blockage and restore the patency of the fallopian tubes.

In vitro fertilization (IVF):

When fallopian tube blockage is severe or cannot be treated, IVF may be recommended. In IVF, eggs are retrieved from the ovaries and fertilized with sperm in a laboratory, and then the resulting embryos are transferred into the uterus.