[Sperm antibodies--a suitable parameter for diagnosis of fertility?]

Antibodies against spermatozoa specific antigens may be produced in female as well in male subjects. There is some evidence that they are able to contribute to infertility in susceptible couples. Therefore, we studied these antibodies with regard to the diagnostics of infertility. It is shown that there is no significant enhancement in the serum levels of the antibodies in infertile female patients and their partners. The figures measured are comparable to those found in pregnant or in climacteric women. It is concluded that the determination of these antibodies does not contribute to an improved diagnostic of infertility.