A cornual block in the fallopian tubes refers to a blockage or obstruction at the cornual end of the fallopian tubes, which is the part closest to the uterus. The fallopian tubes are essential for fertility, as they allow eggs to travel from the ovaries to the uterus and serve as the site of fertilization when sperm meets the egg.
Anatomy of the Fallopian Tubes
The fallopian tubes are divided into different parts: the fimbrial end (closest to the ovaries), the ampullary portion (where fertilization typically occurs), and the cornual end (where the tube connects to the uterus). A cornual block specifically refers to a blockage at the cornual portion of the fallopian tube, near where the tube enters the uterine cavity.
Causes of Cornual Block
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): A common cause of blockages in the fallopian tubes, including cornual block, is a pelvic inflammatory disease, which is often caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia or gonorrhoea. PID can lead to scarring and adhesions in the fallopian tubes.
- Endometriosis: This condition can cause tissue growth outside the uterus, including in the fallopian tubes, leading to blockages or adhesions that may affect the cornual region.
- Previous Tubal Surgery or Infections: Prior surgeries or infections can lead to scarring and obstruction in the fallopian tubes, including the cornual end.
- Congenital Anomalies: Some women may be born with anatomical abnormalities in their fallopian tubes that lead to a cornual blockage.
Symptoms of Cornual Block
Many women with a cornual block may not experience any symptoms at all.
Infertility is often the main sign, as the blockage prevents the egg and sperm from meeting and prevents the egg from travelling to the uterus. In some cases, the blockage can cause mild pelvic pain, especially if there are associated conditions like endometriosis or PID.
Impact of Cornual Block on Fertility
- Obstruction of Egg Transport: The fallopian tubes are essential for the passage of eggs from the ovaries to the uterus. The egg is typically fertilized in the fallopian tube, particularly in the ampullary region (closer to the ovary). A blockage in the cornual region can prevent the egg from travelling down the tube and reaching the uterus, making it difficult for fertilization to occur.
- Prevention of Sperm Access: For fertilization to happen, sperm needs to travel through the fallopian tubes to reach and fertilize the egg. A cornual blockage can obstruct the sperm’s path to the egg, leading to difficulties in conception.
- Increased Risk of Ectopic Pregnancy: If the egg is fertilized but the blockage prevents it from reaching the uterus, the fertilized egg may implant in the fallopian tube itself, causing an ectopic pregnancy. This is a serious condition that requires medical attention and can affect fertility in the long term.
- Bilateral Cornual Blockage: If both fallopian tubes are blocked, natural conception becomes very difficult, as there are no functional pathways for the egg to meet sperm. In such cases, assisted reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization (IVF) are often recommended.
Diagnosis of Cornual Block
- Hysterosalpingography (HSG): This is an X-ray procedure that uses dye to assess the patency of the fallopian tubes. It can identify blockages, including cornual blockages, by observing whether the dye flows through the tubes and into the abdominal cavity.
- Sonohysterography (SHG): A saline solution is injected into the uterus to help visualize the fallopian tubes and check for blockages.
- Laparoscopy: In some cases, a laparoscopy (a minimally invasive surgery) may be performed to directly view the fallopian tubes and diagnose blockages.
Treatment Options for Cornual Block
- Tubal Surgery: If the cornual block is due to scar tissue or adhesions, surgery may be performed to remove the block or repair the fallopian tubes. However, surgery may not always be successful, and the damage to the tubes could be extensive.
- In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): If the blockage cannot be surgically treated or if both tubes are blocked, IVF may be the most effective option. IVF bypasses the need for the fallopian tubes, allowing fertilization to occur outside the body before the embryo is implanted directly into the uterus.
Advice from ZIVA Fertility Clinics about Cornual block in fallopian tubes
A cornual block refers to a blockage in the part of the fallopian tube closest to the uterus, which can significantly affect fertility by preventing the egg and sperm from meeting or travelling properly. Causes can include infections, endometriosis, scarring, or congenital issues. Diagnosis is typically done through imaging techniques like HSG or laparoscopy, and treatment options vary depending on the severity and cause of the blockage, ranging from surgical repair to IVF. If fertility is a concern, a consultation with a fertility specialist is recommended for personalized treatment options. For more information, please visit our website https://zivafertility.com/ or contact us at 919100002737, +919347406900, info@zivafertility.com.
