Mechanics of transport of the ovum in the oviduct

Although the forces leading to ovum transport in the oviduct cannot be measured experimentally, their magnitudes can be estimated analytically. Using anatomical and physiological data, with biomechanical tools, it has been demonstrated that, under normal circumstances, the drag caused by fluid, set in motion by wall peristalsis, is the primary propelling force. This force may lead to back-and-forth motion, but the net movement is in the forward direction. Segmental contraction, fluid circulations due to ciliary beat and the force due to brushing action of cilia on the ovum, are of minor significance. When wall peristalsis is inhibited, cilia activity may lead to ovum movement at near normal rates.