Antisperm Antibodies

Myths, Truths and Treatments of Sperm Allergies

By Kendeyl Johansen

So what causes the immune system to make antisperm antibodies? A genital tract infection, a congenital abnormality in the male genital tract, a vasectomy (as mentioned above) or a varicocoele (a varicose vein in the testicles) can cause these antibodies to develop. Wives of men with abnormal sperm are also at increased risk for developing antisperm antibodies.

Testing 1, 2, 3

When a couple experiences unexplained infertility, their doctor may recommend testing for antisperm antibodies. For males, a semen analysis can detect motionless or clumped sperm and identify the need for additional testing. Females undergo a post-coital test, in which a fluid sample is obtained from the cervix six to 12 hours after intercourse. The sample is then analyzed for the presence of shaking sperm. "In some cases, however, these tests may be normal, and antisperm antibodies may still be present," says Witkin.

A definitive diagnosis is reached after a couple undergoes a sperm antibody test. Witkin recommends the immunobead binding test (IBT) or the Mixed Agglutination Reaction (MAR) test. The IBT assesses the presence of antisperm antibodies in semen, cervical mucous or the blood of either person. The MAR is performed on a semen sample. "There are other tests available but they are non-specific and inaccurate," he says. "In my office we perform the immunobead binding test."

Want to see more?

• Truth Be Told: Uncovering Common Infertility Myths
• Beyond Blood Tests and Hormone Levels: What to Expect From Invasive Infertility Diagnosis and Treatment
• Male Factor Infertility
• Talk about it!