Immunology of Sperm-Induced Infertility

Abstract

Sperm, seminal plasma and ejaculate contain antigens capable of eliciting antibodies. Why then do most females not become sterile after intercourse? Do phagocytes ingest spermatozoa? Do tissue and serum enzymes inactivate spermatic antigens? Experiments indicate that these events, among others, partly safeguard against sperm-destroying antigen-antibody reactions.