Updated by the Progyny Clinical Team — December 2025.
Treatment for tubal factor infertility typically involves surgery and/or in vitro fertilization (IVF), which bypasses the fallopian tubes. The choice depends on the location and severity of tubal damage, as well as individual factors such as age, ovarian reserve, sperm quality, and other infertility diagnoses.
IVF bypasses the fallopian tubes entirely and is often preferred when tubal disease is severe or unlikely to be successfully repaired. IVF success rates are generally reported per cycle, and many people achieve pregnancy without undergoing surgery. However, for patients with a dilated fallopian tube, called a hydrosalpinx, surgery may be recommended to improve success with IVF. IVF involves medication injections, monitoring, and a minor outpatient procedure to remove eggs from the ovary, which are then fertilized in a laboratory.
Though rare, there are rare risks that can occur with IVF. These include ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, bleeding, infection, ovarian torsion, and damage to nearby structures. The risk of complication is less than 1%.
Surgery may be appropriate for select patients, particularly younger women without other infertility factors. Common surgical approaches include:
Direct comparisons of pregnancy rates between tubal surgery and IVF are limited. Surgery may restore natural fertility over time, while IVF typically offers higher per-cycle success rates and avoids some surgical risks. Your fertility team can help evaluate which approach makes sense based on your unique situation.
When choosing between surgery and IVF, consider:
Your care team can help weigh these factors and guide you toward the treatment path most aligned with your goals.
If you have questions, Progyny is here for you. Please contact your Progyny Care Advocate for support.
Disclaimer: The information provided by Progyny is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical guidance.