Why are patent fallopian tubes important in female fertility?

• A. They are necessary for the passage of the egg to the uterus.
• B. They produce estrogen.
• C. They store sperm.
• D. They regulate ovulation.

Answer: (A)

The passage of the egg from the ovary through an open, unobstructed fallopian tube is essential for fertility. After ovulation, the fimbriae grab the released egg and guide it into the tube, where the beating cilia and muscular contractions move it toward the uterus. Fertilization usually occurs in the fallopian tube, and then the resulting embryo travels to the uterus for implantation. If the tubes are blocked, the egg and sperm can’t meet or the embryo can’t reach the uterus, leading to infertility and increasing the risk of ectopic pregnancy if partial patency allows fertilization but blocks movement to the uterus. The other options don’t fit because estrogen is produced mainly by the ovaries, the tubes don’t store sperm, and ovulation is regulated by hormonal signals from the brain and ovaries, not by the fallopian tubes.