There are different causes for this condition and symptoms can vary depending on the individual. Some women do not experience any symptoms, but hydrosalpinx can have a severe impact on fertility.
Symptoms of hydrosalpinx include:
- abdominal and pelvic pain
- unusual vaginal discharge
Diagnosis
Hydrosalpinx is characterized by one or both fallopian tubes being filled with water.
A doctor can diagnose hydrosalpinx using several methods. These include:
- An ultrasound: This is one way of looking for hydrosalpinx, but is less effective.
- Hysterosalpingogram (HSG): This is a type of X-ray that can display tubal blockages. A special dye visible to the X-ray is introduced through the vagina and cervix.
- Laparoscopy: Also known as keyhole surgery, a laparoscopy is a surgical procedure where small incisions are made in the abdomen, and a camera is inserted. This allows a surgeon to see the organs and remove fluid or other issues.
Diagnostic laparoscopy can also determine whether there is another issue that may be causing infertility, such as endometriosis.
Hydrosalpinx and infertility
Anyone with hydrosalpinx should seek professional advice for planning a pregnancy.
During conception, the egg travels from an ovary along the fallopian tube to the uterus. Hydrosalpinx causes the fallopian tube to become blocked with fluid, so the egg cannot pass down the tube, Also, the fimbria that help to draw the egg from the ovary into the tubes can become stuck together.
If only one fallopian tube is blocked, it is still possible to conceive without intervention, as eggs from the other ovary will still be able to make it to the uterus.
There is also a chance that the fluid build up could leak into the uterus and interfere with the embryo implanting itself properly.
Treatment and management
The most common treatment for a woman with hydrosalpinx is to have surgery to remove the affected tube. This type of surgery is known as salpingectomy.Surgery may also be offered to remove scar tissue or other adhesions that could be affecting fertility. If endometriosis is found to be the cause, doctors can also remove the endometrial growths.
Another possible treatment is sclerotherapy. Sclerotherapy is where an ultrasound-guided needle is used to draw fluid out of the affected tube. A special chemical, called a sclerosing agent, is then injected, which should prevent the fluid from building back up again.
Interventional ultrasound sclerotherapy before IVFis a very effective and acceptable prophylactic intervention alternative to salpingectomy for patients with hydrosalpinx, with no adverse effect on ovarian reserve and responsiveness during the IVF procedure.
Interventional ultrasound sclerotherapy before the IVF cycle can improve the endometrial receptivity and pregnancy rate.
What you are to do before procedure (Preparation)?
- Book prior appointment
- Visit us in OPD (9am-5pm) after breakfast, take prescribed medicine and with empty bladder(*No need to hold urine)
- Referring Doctor prescription, previous lab results (*PT/INR), imaging etc.
- If you are on blood thinner like Aspirin or warfarin inform during appointment.
- One accompanying person
- Need to sign a consent form for procedure
Approx. Stay in hospital?
We have very fast and competent working team (Consultant, fellow, clinical assistant, technician and ward assistant) which provide you comfortable atmosphere and ease your nerves. Usual time of stay is around 6 hours.
Complications:
These are very safe procedures with minor (<1%) complication. Mild pain can occur for which medicines will be given. There should be no lingering pain or other unpleasant sensation.
Resume to work?
You can resume your work after 1 day if the existing disease allows.
