What is Anti Sperm Antibody?
An antisperm antibody test looks for special proteins (antibodies) that fight against a man's sperm in blood, vaginal fluids, or semen. The test uses a sample of sperm and adds a substance that binds only to the affected sperm.
Semen can cause an immune system response in either the man's or woman's body. The antibodies can damage or kill sperm. If a high number of sperm antibodies come into contact with a man's sperm, it may be hard for the sperm to fertilize an egg. The couple has a hard time becoming pregnant. This is also called immunologic infertility.
Why Get Tested?
The test diagnosis and analyzes the causes of infertility when a couple is unable to conceive; however it also analyzes the health of the reproductive organs. It is done as a blood test in females and as a sperm test in males. The antibodies can damage or destroy sperm causing infertility. This is called immunological infertility. Anti sperm antibodies can be made in the body of the man in the following cases:
- When the testicles are injured after surgeries (such as a biopsy or vasectomy)
- To check the success of a vasectomy ( sterilization procedure for males)
- After a prostate gland infection
- Testicular cancer
A woman may have an allergic reaction to her partner’s semen, thus producing antibodies against it and causing infertility.
Reason To Take Antisperm Antibody Test Test
Antisperm Antibody test is ordered when couples face fertility issues and the woman is unable to conceive.
Preparations Needed For Antisperm Antibody Test Test
Preparatory instructions before the test :
No special preparations are required.
Sample Required?
Specimen type: For Women
Serum (Blood Sample)
Specimen collection procedure:
Venipuncture
