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Antisperm Antibodies

Myths, Truths and Treatments of Sperm Allergies

By Kendeyl Johansen

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."

"[My husband and I] were both saddened that we could not get pregnant without any medical intervention, but at the same time, happy that we were getting answers to why conceiving was taking so long," says Cole. "Before knowing too much about what [the diagnosis] meant, I immediately thought I could not have children. I was scared and frightened as well as determined to find out all the information I could. The doctor assured me there were ways around this 'allergy.'"

The presence of these antibodies doesn't mean a couple can't have a baby. There are several treatments available for men and women with antisperm antibodies.

Many men and women with this condition jumpstart their fertility with steroid treatment. This can temporarily lower antibody levels and increase the odds of conception.

Want to see more?

• High Tech Babies: Artificial Insemination: Can Artificial Insemination Help You Conceive?
• Beyond Blood Tests and Hormone Levels: What to Expect from Invasive Infertility Diagnosis and Treatment
• Male Factor Infertility: Infertility from His Perspective
• Join the discussion on our Family.com community!

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