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Whenever your body speaks in discomfort, it's always a call to get your attention towards being unwell. Salpingitis is an infection of the fallopian tubes that causes severe damage if not diagnosed at an early stage.
If you are feeling frequent pelvic pain and stomach aches, it might not be just period cramps. And the tricky part is that it can creep in quietly and later cause major and long-term issues like infertility. Those who aren’t aware of this term must read this blog, where we will discuss its causes, symptoms and treatment before it becomes a bigger problem.
Let’s start by explaining what Salpingitis is.
What is Salpingitis?
Salpingitis is a type of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) that affects both the fallopian tube parts. Neisseria Gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia (sexually transmitted bacterial infections) are the most common ways of getting infected with Salpingitis. Fallopian tubes play a crucial role in the female reproductive system by creating a pathway to connect the ovaries to the uterus.
Hence, an infection in the fallopian tube function can lead to blockage of eggs into the womb and result in infertility or severe pelvic pain. This condition can convert into Hydrosalpinx, in which the fallopian tubes are filled with fluid.
What are the Types of the Fallopian Tubes?
The Fallopian tubes, or uterine tubes, are divided into four parts:
- Intramural (or interstitial) portion: The part of the fallopian tube which extends into the uterus’s top and opens into your uterine cavity.
- Isthmus: This part is narrow with a small diameter and thick muscular walls located between the intramural portion and the ampulla.
- Ampulla: It is the longest and the widest part of the fallopian tube, where the eggs are fertilised.
- Infundibulum with fimbriae: This is the end part of the fallopian tube with the funnel-shaped end. It is the closest part to the ovary.
What are the Types of Salpingitis Fallopian Tube Infection?
There are two types of Salpingitis diagnosed in the fallopian tube test.
Acute Salpingitis
Acute Salpingitis can be caused by PID or STIs, and if left untreated, can cause chronic salpingitis, infertility or ectopic pregnancy. Abdominal pain, yellow or smelly discharge, nausea, vomiting, and pain during intercourse or urination are the common symptoms of Acute Salpingitis.
Chronic Salpingitis
Chronic Salpingitis is caused by persistent inflammation in the fallopian tube. Although its symptoms and complications are milder than Acute Salpingitis but it lasts longer.
What are the Common Symptoms of Salpingitis?
Here are some common symptoms that you must look for to detect any sign of Salpingitis:
- Pain felt in the lower abdomen or pelvis
- Abnormal Vaginal Discharge- like a strange colour or odour
- Unusually heavy period or spotting between periods
- Fever and chills
- Nausea, vomiting, and painful urination
- Pain during sex or menstruation
- More often pee
- Lower back pain
- Dysmenorrhoea (painful periods)
What are the Causes of Salpingitis?
The primary cause of Salpingitis is a bacterial infection, which can occur due to the following reasons:
- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) like Chlamydia, Gonococcus and Mycoplasma genitalium
- Infections like Mycoplasma, Staphylococcus and Streptococcus.
- Appendicitis
- Procedures or prior surgery like uterine biopsy, laparoscopy, hysteroscopy or during IUD insertion.
- Miscarriage, Childbirth, or abortion
Complication Risk Associated with the Female Fallopian Tube Parts
The untreated Salpingitis can lead to various health complications and affect the uterus and ovaries. Some common risks are:
Ectopic Pregnancy
A blocked left fallopian tube can disturb the transfer of fertilised eggs to the uterus. It can cause the implant in the tube and can increase the risk of Ectopic pregnancies. This condition can be severe and life-threatening.
Infertility
The Tubal inflammation can become scarred and can damage the sperm's ability to move and meet with the eggs. This condition can cause infertility if not treated.
Tubo-ovarian abscess
Fallopian tube parts infection can cause the development of a tubo-ovarian abscess. It is a kind of infected pus which requires hospitalisation and immediate treatment.
Spreading of infection
If you are infected with Salpingitis, there is a higher chance of transmission of bacterial infection to your sexual partner, too. Having multiple sexual partners can also increase the risk.
Can affect other organs
If left untreated, the infection can cause damage to other organs, including the uterus and ovaries.
How to Diagnose Salpingitis- Fallopian Tube Test?
There are numerous tests which are suggested to be combined to diagnose Salpingitis. Some of the common tests are:
1. Medical History and Laboratory Test: First, the healthcare professional will review your medical history and perform physical tests to determine the condition's details. This includes blood and urine tests, and a Swab test of your vagina and cervix.
2. Imaging Tests: A visualisation test is also suggested to obtain thorough details of the pelvic organs. This includes:
- Ultrasound: To get visualisation of the fallopian tubes and detect potential blockages.
- Hysterography Test: An X-ray to check for blockages in the fallopian tubes.
3. Laparoscopy: During Laproscopy, a thin medical instrument is inserted into your abdomen to visualise the fallopian tubes and surrounding organs more closely.
Salpingitis Blocked Tubes Treatment
Salpingitis is a tubal inflammation which surely requires timely treatment, as the infection can lead into the lifetime infertility. Here are the Salpingitis blocked tubes treatment options:
1. Antibiotics: Antibiotics are the primary treatment option for Salpingitis. Most cases are cured through antibiotics to reduce the infection. Ceftriaxone is the most effective medical treatment.
2. Surgical intervention: If the case is severe and incurable through antibiotics, then surgery can be suggested by your healthcare provider. Some common surgical processes are:
- Tubal Anastomosis: It is a surgery where the fallopian tubes are rejoined after a blockage.
- Salpingostomy: It is a surgical process where a new opening is created in the fallopian tubes. In some cases, removal of a fallopian tube is also possible during the process.
- Tubal Implantation: In this surgical process, the fallopian tubes are reattached to the uterus.
3. In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF): IVF is also a good option for fertilising eggs in a lab and transferring the embryos directly into the uterus by passing through the fallopian tubes. If the surgery is unsuccessful, then it can be considered.
4. Fallopian Tube Recanalisation: It is a non-surgical process of opening blocked fallopian tubes by a catheter.
Tip: The complexity of the treatment sounds expensive, especially when your body is screaming for attention. With the right health insurance coverage, you can focus on healing and leave the financial worries behind.
Ayurvedic Treatment for Blocked Fallopian Tubes
Yes, there are Ayurvedic treatments available for blocked tubes, and they are effective. Ayurveda focuses on gentle, internal cleansing and nourishing approaches that help in restoring natural flow without any surgery.
When exploring AYUSH care, the Care Supreme health plan from Care Health Insurance has your back. It fully covers inpatient AYUSH treatments under certified facilities with no sub-limits, no hidden caps. This allows you to have peace of mind and focus on your fertility journey.
Reclaiming Your Reproductive Flow
Salpingitis feels like your body is betraying you, and the ache isn’t restricted to being just physical. It matters most to be heard, as tubes are the major part of fertility. And if left untreated, it can cause lasting harm. But with self-care, timely appointments, right treatment and encouraging words can lead toward a brighter tomorrow.
>> Also Read: Hydrosalpinx: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
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