Immunological Infertility

Your immune system is responsible for fighting harmful microorganisms through the production of antibodies that recognize and attack foreign cells, such as bacteria and viruses. Autoimmunity is an inappropriate immune response where your body produces antibodies against your own cells and tissues.

Cause

Immunological infertility in men is an autoimmune response. The male immune system can react to its own sperm as if they were invading cells, and may be caused by an infection, an injury or a vasectomy reversal. Additionally, men with testicular cancer tend to have higher concentrations of anti-sperm antibodies. The immune system attacks the sperm which impairs sperm motility.

Treatment

Depending on your case and goals of care, your doctor may discuss treatment options such as intrauterine insemination (IUI), or in vitro fertilization with intracytoplasmic insemination (ICSI) with you.