Fallopian tubes

The Fallopian tubes are the ducts through which eggs travel to the uterus once released from the follicle. Sperm normally meet the egg in the fallopian tube, the site at which fertilization usually occurs. The tubes may be blocked and therefore the egg may not be able to reach the sperm for a number of reasons:

• Blocked from birth (congenital tubal obstruction)
• Intentional tying or clipping to prevent pregnancy (tubal ligation)
• Sexually transmitted diseases (Chlamydia)
• Scarring following surgery
• Severe endometriosis