Risk of Infertility

I had Chlamydia 13 years ago (I am now 28 years old) that developed into PID.  I was treated for this infection 4 months after I had sex.  I am now thinking about having children.  What are the chances that my fallopian are/are not blocked because of the PID, and what kind(s) of tests do gynecologists do to help me determine my chances of conceiving (if I have a problem)?

[Elaine Brown, MD]

Hi!
There is a possibility that your tubes are damaged, and you are definitely at risk for ectopic or tubal pregnancy.  If you were my patient, I would offer you two different options--the first would be to "try" for awhile and if no luck then proceed with testing, the second option would be to go ahead with a hysterosalpingogram (hsg) to check to see what the tubes look like.  If you do have an HSG, you should take antibiotics for several days before and afterwards.  If the test showed partial or complete blockage, your best option then would be to proceed with IVF.  In some cases the tubes are so badly damaged that they are filled with fluid and visible on ultrasound.  This condition is called hydrosalpinx, and most REs recommend removing the tubes before going through IVF.
So, and ultrasound would possibly be helpful too.  
These are the main tests that would be indicated in your situation, and it is a matter of personal preference whether you "try" for awhile first or have the testing done first
I hope this is helpful!
Dr B