There really are no outward signs that will let you know if you are suffering from blocked Fallopian tubes.
If you have ever suffered from pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), there is however a very good chance that your tubes are blocked, as doctors estimate that at least three out of four women that have had a sexually transmitted disease do suffer from tubal blockage.
The primary indicator that there is a blockage is usually an inability to conceive.
Fortunately, there are medical tests that detect any abnormalities or blockages.
If there is evidence of some type of blockage to the tubes, further investigation is generally performed using a laparoscope which will help the doctor actually see into the fallopian tubes.
Here are details on how blocked fallopian tubes are diagnosed;
Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) Hysterosalpingogram is an X-ray test, using a contrast dye to view any obstruction in the Fallopian tubes.
The dye is inserted through a thin tube that is placed up through the vagina, into the uterus. Filling the uterus with this dye will then spill into the Fallopian tubes.
X-rays are then taken to determine if there is an injury or abnormal shape of the uterus and Fallopian tubes, including obstruction in the tubes.
This test is the number one test performed to determine if there is a blockage in the Fallopian tubes.
Chromotubation: This test is similar to hysterosalpingogram because it includes dye being passed into the uterus and Fallopian tubes as well.
This test is performed during laparoscopy, so that doctors can see the dye spilling from the Fallopian tube.
The dye used for this procedure cannot be seen on an X-ray, it is blue in colour.
This test is considered the most reliable way to determine Fallopian tube blockage, but does require surgery.
Sonohysterography: This is a non-invasive procedure where ultrasound imaging is used to determine if there are any abnormalities of the reproductive organs.
This type of test is not always a reliable way to determine Fallopian tube blockage since the tubes are so small. This test may help to determine hydrosalpinx or other issues such as uterine fibroids.