The natural variations in prostaglandin concentration in human seminal fluid and its relation to sperm quality

Prostaglandins E, F, 19-hydroxy E, and 19-hydroxy F (PGE, PGF, 19-OH-PGE, and 19-OH-PGF) in human semen were determined by a new chemical method. The method allows liquefaction to occur, a prerequisite for simultaneous estimation of PG concentration and sperm characteristics in the same ejaculate. The present study showed also that the variation in PG concentration between different individuals was more pronounced than in repeated ejaculates from the same individual. Sperm density and sperm motility seemed related to PG concentration. A high density was associated with a low PG concentration. The concentration of 19-OH-PGE was higher and that of 19-OH-PGF lower in ejaculates with a normal sperm motility than in those with an abnormal motility. It seems that functional requisites of sperm depend upon optimal seminal PG concentration.