Figure 13.6 Blocked Fallopian Tubes Animation Video
Transcript:
Blocked Fallopian Tubes
Ovulation begins when the ovary releases a mature oocyte, or egg, into the fallopian tube. Fertilization occurs if a sperm meets and enters the egg. The fertilized egg continues to move through the tube and into the uterus, where it will attach to the uterine wall.
Some sexually transmitted infections affect the health of a woman’s fallopian tubes.
Pelvic inflammatory disease, for example, may cause scar tissue to build in the fallopian tube. The scar tissue can block an egg’s path to the uterus. If the blocked egg has been fertilized, this may result in an ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancy is a life-threatening condition that may result in a ruptured tube, severe bleeding, or a dangerous pelvic infection.