The fallopian tubes are the part of the female reproductive system and help in transmitting the ovum from the ovaries to the uterine cavity. The female reproductive system comprises of two fallopian tubes, one on either sides.
Fallopian tubes are lined by ciliated epithelium which helps the ovum to move from the ovaries into the uterine cavity, where it is fertilized.
In general enlargement of the fallopian tube is indicative of tubal damage and can directly impact the female’s chances of conception. Damage to both the fallopian tubes can mean that the chances of the female to conceive naturally are limited.
In most cases, hysterosalpingography is performed to check the patency of the fallopian tubes before deciding on the subsequent course of action. This test for patency attempts to verify if the ovum can travel through the fallopian tube into the uterus.
If the tubes are patent, natural conception may be attempted for about a year (depending upon the patient’s condition), before other artificial methods of conception are considered.
Causes Of Enlarged Fallopian Tubes
Here are some of the factors that may be associated with enlargement of the tubes,
- Acute or chronic infection of the fallopian tube, referred to as salpingitis is the most common cause for the enlargement of the fallopian tube. Salpingitis is often caused due to bacterial infection, which results in extravagation of interstitial fluid into the tubes, which causes them to get enlarged. This condition is often associated with pain in the abdomen.
- Ectopic pregnancy i.e. implantation of the embryo at a site other than the uterine surface is another common cause for enlarged fallopian tube. If not treated promptly, the condition may lead to rupture of the fallopian tube and lead to intraperitonial edema.
- Metastasis of tumor either from the ovaries or the uterus can also cause enlargement of the fallopian tube. However this is usually observed in females towards the end of their reproductive age, though it may affect younger females.
- Endometriosis is another condition which can lead to swelling of the fallopian tubes, however in this condition, the symptoms manifest only during menstrual bleeding.
Enlarged Fallopian Tube Symptoms
Some of the common symptoms associated with enlarged fallopian tubes include,
- Enlargement of the fallopian tubes may be associated with symptoms including abdominal pain, which can be associated with nausea and vomiting.
- The condition may also be linked with pain during sexual intercourse and affect the libido of the female.
- Other symptoms associated with enlarged fallopian tube may include lower back pain, increased urgency and frequency of urination, severe headaches, fever, etc.
- Some patients may complain of spotting between periods and abnormal yellowish and offensive discharge from the vagina.
Home Remedies For Swollen Fallopian Tubes
The treatment regimen would depend upon various factors including the age of the female, whether or no she is looking to conceive in the future, the cause of the condition and severity of the symptoms. Here are some natural remedies that can be tried along with conventional therapy to improve its efficacy,
- Consume about 5 to 10 grams of turmeric each day. Turmeric has strong anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce the swelling.
- Raw honey is a potent natural anti-microbial and should be consumed about twice a day.
- Homeopathic drug pulsatilla and sepia can be beneficial; however it is important to consult your physician before using them.