Reproductive System & Sexual Disorders: Current Research
Open Access

Role of Fallopian Tube in the Process of Fertilization

^*Correspondence: Mozie Lancy, Department of Epidemiology, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia, Email:

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About the Study

The fallopian tube, also known as the uterine tube, is a pair of thin, muscular tubes that extend from the uterus towards the ovaries in the female reproductive system. These tubes play a crucial role in the fertilization of the egg by the sperm. During ovulation, the fallopian tubes capture the released egg from the ovary and transport it to the uterus. If sperm are present in the fallopian tube, they may fertilize the egg, resulting in pregnancy.

The fallopian tubes are lined with cilia, tiny hair-like structures that help to move the egg towards the uterus. Blockages or damage to the fallopian tubes can lead to infertility, as the egg may not be able to travel through the tube or be fertilized properly [1]. The fallopian tubes, also known as the uterine tubes or oviducts, are a pair of long, narrow tubes that connect the ovaries to the uterus in the female reproductive system. They are an essential part of the reproductive process, as they play a critical role in transporting the egg from the ovary to the uterus for fertilization [2].

Structure of the fallopian tubes

The fallopian tubes are approximately 10-12 cm in length and are divided into several sections. The outermost section of the fallopian tube is called the infundibulum, which is a funnelshaped structure that is lined with finger-like projections called fimbriae. The fimbriae help to capture the egg as it is released from the ovary during ovulation. The middle portion of the fallopian tube is called the ampulla, which is the widest part of the tube. This is where fertilization usually occurs when the sperm meets the egg. The ampulla is lined with tiny hair-like structures called cilia, which help to move the egg towards the uterus. The innermost part of the fallopian tube is called the isthmus, which is a narrow, muscular section that connects the tube to the uterus [3].

Functions of the fallopian tubes

The primary function of the fallopian tubes is to transport the egg from the ovary to the uterus for fertilization. During ovulation, the egg is released from the ovary and travels through the infundibulum, where it is captured by the fimbriae. The fimbriae then gently sweep the egg into the ampulla, where it may encounter sperm and become fertilized.

The cilia that line the ampulla of the fallopian tube help to move the egg towards the uterus. The cilia beat in a coordinated fashion, creating a current that propels the egg forward. The movement of the egg through the fallopian tube takes several days, during which time the egg may be fertilized by sperm that have entered the tube from the vagina [4]. In addition to transporting the egg, the fallopian tubes also provide a suitable environment for fertilization to occur. The walls of the fallopian tube secrete fluids and nutrients that nourish the sperm and egg and provide an ideal environment for the fertilized egg to implant in the uterus.

Conditions affecting the fallopian tubes

There are several conditions that can affect the fallopian tubes and interfere with their ability to transport the egg and support fertilization. These include:

Blockages: Blockages in the fallopian tubes can prevent the egg from reaching the uterus or prevent sperm from reaching the egg. Blockages can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections, scar tissue from surgery, or structural abnormalities [5].

Ectopic pregnancy: An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants in the fallopian tube instead of the uterus. Ectopic pregnancies can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.

Salpingitis: Salpingitis is an infection of the fallopian tubes that is usually caused by sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. Salpingitis can cause scarring and damage to the fallopian tubes, leading to infertility.

Hydrosalpinx: Hydrosalpinx is a condition in which the fallopian tube becomes filled with fluid. This can prevent the egg from reaching the uterus or interfere with fertilization.

References

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