7 Steps to Getting Pregnant with Blocked Fallopian Tubes: Your Fertility Options Explained

2 min read

Close-up of pregnant woman lying on bed, holding her bump
Close-up of pregnant woman lying on bed, holding her bump

Can you get pregnant with blocked fallopian tubes? Being told you have blocked fallopian tubes can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t mean the end of your fertility journey. There are still several pathways to conception, including treatments and lifestyle changes that can improve your chances of getting pregnant.

Blocked fallopian tubes are a common cause of infertility, affecting about 20-30% of women struggling to conceive. The good news is, with the right diagnosis and plan, pregnancy is still possible.

Here are seven clear steps to take if you’ve been diagnosed with blocked fallopian tubes.

Step 1: Confirm the Diagnosis

Your doctor will likely start with a hysterosalpingogram (HSG), which involves injecting a special dye into the uterus and taking X-rays to see if the fallopian tubes are open. Other tests like saline sonograms or laparoscopy may also be recommended to confirm the extent and location of the blockage.

Step 2: Understand the Type and Severity of the Blockage

  • Partial Blockage: Sometimes, women with one open tube or a partially blocked tube can still conceive naturally, although it may take longer.

  • Complete Blockage: If both tubes are completely blocked, natural conception isn’t possible without medical intervention.

Knowing the type of blockage is key to understanding your options.

Step 3: Consider Surgical Options

In some cases, surgery can help. Procedures like tubal cannulation or laparoscopy can remove adhesions, scar tissue, or correct structural problems.

Surgery may be an option if:

  • You have minimal damage to your tubes

  • The blockage is close to the uterus (proximal blockage)

Surgical success rates vary, and your doctor will help determine if this is appropriate for you.

Step 4: Explore IVF (In Vitro Fertilization)

IVF bypasses the fallopian tubes entirely by retrieving eggs directly from the ovaries and fertilizing them in a lab. The embryo is then transferred into the uterus.

IVF is often the most effective option for women with bilateral tubal blockage or if surgery isn’t successful. Success rates depend on factors like age, egg quality, and clinic expertise.

Step 5: Treat Underlying Conditions

Blocked fallopian tubes are often caused by:

  • Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

  • Endometriosis

  • Fibroids

Addressing these conditions can prevent further damage and increase your chances of conception.

Step 6: Optimise Your Fertility Health

Focus on overall health and fertility by:

  • Eating an anti-inflammatory diet

  • Taking fertility supplements (e.g., CoQ10, omega-3s)

  • Maintaining a healthy weight

  • Reducing stress through acupuncture or mindfulness

These changes can support better outcomes whether you pursue surgery or IVF.

Step 7: Find Emotional Support

Fertility struggles can be isolating. Join a support group, whether online or in-person. Our fertie community is a safe space to connect with others on the same journey.

👉 Our Fertility 101 course offers comprehensive guidance on treatment options, including IVF for tubal factor infertility.

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Disclaimer: This post is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.