Immunology and Infertility

Immunological issues can play a significant role in infertility by disrupting the delicate balance needed for conception and pregnancy. Normally, the immune system protects the body from invaders like bacteria and viruses, but sometimes it mistakenly targets reproductive cells or processes. For instance, in men, antisperm antibodies might form after an infection or injury, causing the immune system to attack sperm and reduce their ability to fertilize an egg. In women, similar autoimmune responses can affect eggs, the uterus, or even the developing embryo, preventing implantation or leading to recurrent miscarriages. Conditions like endometriosis or autoimmune disorders such as lupus can exacerbate these problems by triggering inflammation in reproductive organs. While not all infertility cases stem from immune factors, understanding and addressing them through medical tests and treatments, like immunosuppressive therapies, can improve chances for many couples trying to conceive.