Some immunological properties of female saliva and its effect on sperm motility

In this study, we investigated pH, levels of IgA, IgG, IgM, lysozyme and spermagglutinating antibodies in human saliva of healthy women, with or without hormonal contraception (HC) and their effect on sperm motility.

Saliva was collected immediately after waking up from 59 healthy randomly selected women. We measured pH in sera and in saliva as well as immunoglobulin G, A and M levels in saliva by radial immunodiffusion. Sperm - saliva capillary penetration test in native saliva served for examination of sperm motility, indirect-MAR test for detection of sperm antibodies in sera, and in saliva, both observed by inverted microscope. The average pH values in native saliva according to the menstrual cycles were: from 2-5 days 6.896, from 6-17 days 7.027, and from 18 and more days 7.17. Rapid decrease of sperm motility was registered in acidic saliva in comparison with alkaline. The average concentration of IgA, IgG, IgM and lysozyme slightly differed in women with or without hormonal contraception. Moderate decreasing of sperm motility was found in saliva with higher levels of IgA. No sperm agglutinating antibodies in saliva and in serum were detected in all subjects.

The pH of saliva is influenced by several causes (hormonal, immunological, microbiological factors, by meal and drinks, smoking, etc.). We demonstrated that sperm motility is lower in acidic saliva. pH is markedly changed during various days of menstrual cycles. We proved individual high levels of saliva IgA. Human saliva used as coital lubricant decreases sperm motility, but does not replace a local form of contraception.