Fallopian tubes: Is pregnancy possible with only one?

Updated: 2025-01-31

Answer Section

Yes. The fallopian tubes are a pair of tubes that eggs travel through to get from the ovaries to the uterus. Each month during the menstrual cycle, one of the ovaries releases an egg. This is a process called ovulation. Then the egg travels down one of the fallopian tubes. It may or may not be fertilized by a sperm in the tube. If the egg becomes fertilized, it needs to attach to the wall of the uterus to start a pregnancy.

You may have only one fallopian tube if you've had pelvic surgery for an infection, a tumor or a past ectopic pregnancy. With an ectopic pregnancy, a fertilized egg attaches outside the uterus and can't survive. Also, having only one fallopian tube may be something that's present at birth. But you may still be able to get pregnant with only one tube if:

• You have at least one working ovary.
• You have monthly menstrual cycles.
• Your remaining fallopian tube is healthy.

If you're not able to get pregnant after trying to conceive for at least six months, see your gynecologist or a fertility specialist called a reproductive endocrinologist. You also can see either healthcare professional if you have known health issues that affect one or both fallopian tubes. Your healthcare professional may talk with you about treatments that can boost your chances of pregnancy. These treatments are called assisted reproductive technologies. They include in vitro fertilization, also called IVF.