Hydrosalpinx and IVF: What It Means
Hydrosalpinx is a condition in which a fallopian tube becomes blocked and fills with fluid. This fluid can affect an embryo's ability to implant in the uterus.
It is assessed with tests such as imaging of the tubes. Below is an informational overview of hydrosalpinx and IVF; you can also read about why IVF fails.
Why does hydrosalpinx matter?
Fluid in the tubes can flow back into the uterus and disturb the environment where an embryo would implant. This makes hydrosalpinx a factor considered in IVF planning.
Not every hydrosalpinx is the same; assessment is individual.
What are the causes?
The main factors that can damage a tube include:
- Previous pelvic infections
- Endometriosis
- Earlier abdominal or pelvic surgery
- Adhesions
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis can use ultrasound, imaging of the tubes and, when needed, laparoscopy. Your doctor evaluates the findings as a whole.
Some hydrosalpinges appear as visible fluid on ultrasound.
Effect on IVF success
An untreated hydrosalpinx can make implantation after embryo transfer more difficult, so assessment before transfer is important.
The process is planned to protect the uterine environment.
Approach and options
The approach is planned for the individual and decided by your doctor. Steps that may be considered:
- Surgical assessment of the affected tube
- Preparing the uterine environment before transfer
- Freezing embryos and transferring in a suitable cycle when needed
Related Reading
- The Stages of IVF Treatment
- Why Does IVF Fail? Common Reasons and What to Do Next
- Recurrent Miscarriage and Implantation Failure: Causes and What Can Help
Sources and references
This article is supported by the following independent, authoritative sources: