Fallopian tubes: definition and meaning
The fallopian tubes are two thin tubes, about 10 to 12 cm long, that connect the area near each ovary to the top of the uterus. At ovulation, finger-like ends called fimbriae sweep the egg into a tube. Fertilization usually happens there, and tiny hair-like cilia then move the fertilized egg toward the uterus over a few days.
How they work in your cycle
- At ovulation, an egg leaves the ovary.
- The fimbriae catch it and draw it into the tube.
- If sperm are present, conception usually happens in the widest part of the tube.
- Over 3 to 5 days, the dividing embryo travels to the uterus to implant.
Why they matter
- [Ectopic pregnancy](/glossary/ectopic-pregnancy): an embryo implants in the tube instead of the uterus, which is an emergency
- Blocked tubes: often from pelvic inflammatory disease or endometriosis, a common cause of infertility
- Sterilization: tubes can be tied, blocked or removed as permanent contraception
- Ovarian cancer prevention: many high-grade ovarian cancers are now thought to start in the tubes
Doctors check whether tubes are open with an X-ray dye test (HSG) or an ultrasound-based test. If both tubes are blocked, IVF bypasses them completely.
Because sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia can scar the tubes without obvious symptoms, regular STI testing is a quiet way to protect future fertility.
Get urgent care for sharp one-sided pelvic pain, shoulder-tip pain, dizziness or fainting, especially if your period is late or you might be pregnant. These can be signs of ectopic pregnancy.
Frequently asked questions
Can you get pregnant with one fallopian tube?
Yes. If the remaining tube is healthy, many people conceive naturally, because either tube can often pick up an egg.
Can you feel your fallopian tubes?
No. Pain in the area usually comes from the ovary, an infection or, in pregnancy, an ectopic pregnancy.
Sources
This page is for information only and isn鈥檛 medical advice. If something worries you, please talk to a doctor.
Keep reading
Ovaries: definition and meaningThe ovaries are two small glands that store eggs and make estrogen and progesterone. What they do across the cycle, through life, and why they matter.
What is an ectopic pregnancy?An ectopic pregnancy grows outside the uterus, usually in a fallopian tube. The warning signs to know, why it's an emergency, and how it's treated.
Conception: definition and meaningConception is when sperm fertilizes an egg, the start of pregnancy. How it happens step by step, when it can happen in your cycle, and how long it takes.
Uterus: definition and meaningThe uterus, or womb, is where a period comes from and where a pregnancy grows. Its parts, how it changes each cycle, and common conditions that affect it.
Ovulation phase: signs, timing and feelingsThe ovulation phase explained: when you ovulate, how long it lasts, the signs and symptoms to look for, and why mood, energy and libido often peak.