I have only one fallopian tube. Is it possible for me to get pregnant?
Answer From Yvonne Butler Tobah, M.D.
Yes. The fallopian tubes are a pair of tubes that eggs travel through to get from the ovaries to the uterus. Each month, during a process called ovulation, one of the ovaries releases an egg that travels down one of the fallopian tubes, where it may or may not be fertilized by a sperm.
You might have only one fallopian tube if you've had pelvic surgery for an infection, a tumor or a past ectopic pregnancy. Occasionally, some women are born with only one tube. However, you may still be able to get pregnant with only one tube if:
- You have at least one functioning ovary
- You have monthly menstrual cycles (ovulate)
- Your remaining fallopian tube is healthy
If you're unable to get pregnant after trying to conceive, or if you have a known history of problems with your fallopian tube, see your gynecologist or a reproductive endocrinologist for evaluation.
With
Yvonne Butler Tobah, M.D.
Show References
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- Strauss JF, et al., eds. Female infertility. In: Yen and Jaffe's Reproductive Endocrinology. 8th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Elsevier; 2019. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Jan. 8, 2019.
- Frequently asked questions. Gynecologic problems FAQ136. Evaluating infertility. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. https://www.acog.org/Patients/FAQs/Evaluating-Infertility. Accessed Jan. 8, 2019.
- Pereira N, et al. Congenital unilateral fallopian tube and renal agenesis in a patient with primary infertility. The Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology. 2018;25:316.
- Mann WJ, et al. Cancer of the ovary, fallopian tube, and peritoneum: Staging and initial surgical management. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Jan. 8, 2019.
- Chua SJ, et al. Surgery for tubal infertility. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. https://www.cochranelibrary.com/. Accessed Jan. 9, 2019.
Original article: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/female-infertility/expert-answers/pregnancy/faq-20058418