immunological infertility

Immunological infertility occurs most often in men. The male immune system can react to its own sperm as if they were invading cells, attacking the sperm and making them useless. This reaction can be caused by an infection, cancer or a vasectomy.

If the cause of the immunological infertility is female related the current theories are that cervical mucous can kill sperm or the uterus can reject the embryo. However, both theories are unproven.

symptoms

Although there may not be obvious signs of infection, an old infection may not appear to be present, a past infection that was not completely resolved could still be present in the body.

cause

The cause of immunological infertility is still unproven.

treatment

Treatment for this disorder ranges from drug therapies to assisted reproduction:

• Steroids: Cortisone, prednisone, dexamethasone can reduce the body's immune system response.
• Antibiotics: Antibiotics are used when it is believed the condition is a result of a bacterial infection (theorized by only some healthcare providers).
• Assisted reproductive technologies: Intrauterine insemination (IUI), intratubal insemination (ITI), in vitro fertilization (IVF) or gamete intrafallopian transfer (GIFT) are also options.