Introduction: Infertility affects a significant proportion of reproductive-age women, with tubal factors contributing to 25-35% of cases globally. Laparoscopy remains the gold standard for evaluation of tubal patency, pelvic adhesions, and associated pathology, offering both diagnostic and therapeutic advantages. Early laparoscopic assessment is particularly valuable in settings with high rates of pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, and previous pelvic surgery.
Aims and Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate tubal factors contributing to infertility using diagnostic laparoscopy and to assess the prevalence and pattern of tubal and associated pelvic pathology in women presenting with primary and secondary infertility.
Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional observational study conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, KPC Medical College & Hospital, Kolkata, West Bengal. The study was carried out over a period of one year (July 2019 to June 2021) and included a total of 88 infertile women undergoing evaluation for tubal and ovarian factors as part of infertility work-up.
Results: Among 88 infertility patients, most were aged 25-30 years (41%) with infertility <5 years (46%) and normal BMI (87%). Menstrual irregularity was seen in 53%, hirsutism in 11%, and hormonal abnormalities were uncommon. Ultrasound showed polycystic ovaries in 42%, ovarian cysts in 5%, and hydrosalpinx in 2%. Laparoscopy revealed normal tubes in 72%, blocked tubes in 17%, adhesions in 22%, and endometriosis in 4%. Ovarian drilling (43%) and cystectomy (30%) were the most frequent interventions.
Conclusion: Laparoscopic evaluation plays a critical role in identifying tubal and associated pelvic pathologies contributing to infertility. A significant proportion of patients demonstrated tubal factor involvement, highlighting the importance of early laparoscopy in guiding appropriate management. Incorporating laparoscopy into infertility work-ups enhances diagnostic accuracy, aids therapeutic planning, and may improve reproductive outcomes.
International Journal of Clinical Obstetrics and Gynaecology
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Research Journals