Overview
Immunologic infertility in men refers to a condition where the immune system produces antibodies that attack sperm cells, impairing their function or ability to fertilize an egg.
Normally, the immune system protects the body from foreign invaders, such as viruses and bacteria, but in some cases, it may mistakenly identify sperm cells as foreign substances and initiate an immune response against them.
There are various ways in which immunologic infertility can manifest in men:
Antisperm antibodiesSperm agglutinationSperm immobilization
Causes
Testicular trauma or injuryInfections of the reproductive tractVaricoceleSurgical proceduresGenetic factorsAutoimmune disordersIdiopathic causes
Symptoms
Common symptoms and signs associated with immunologic infertility in men may include:
Difficulty achieving pregnancyAbnormal semen analysis resultsRecurrent miscarriagesPresence of antisperm antibodies
Treatment: Modern Medicine
Immunomodulatory therapyIntracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)Sperm washingSurgical interventionsIntratesticular injection of sperm (TESI)Antisperm antibody removal
Treatment: Traditional Medicine
Herbal remedies:
Ashwagandha (Withania somniferaShatavari (Asparagus racemosus)Dong quai (Angelica sinensis)GinsengNutritional supplements:
Folic acidCoenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)Omega-3 fatty acids
Caution
Consult with healthcare professionalsEvidence-based approachPotential interactions and side effectsSafety considerations
Prevention
Balanced dietLimiting caffeine and alcoholMaintaining a healthy weightYoga and meditation