Can women’s bodies “filter out” unwanted sperm?

Can women’s bodies “filter out” unwanted sperm?

Research has previously shown that it isn’t simply a matter of the strongest sperm making it to the “finishing line” that ultimately results in a healthy baby. However it’s a lot more complicated than most people believe.

When you factor in sperm quality, egg quality, embryo quality, age, endometrial receptiveness, multiple signalling pathways and hormone responses to name a few, the process becomes a very daunting experience for patients embarking on their own fertility journey. As scientists, we dedicate our lives and our careers to research that will help patients achieve their dream of starting a family.

New research has helped us learn that various chemicals that occur naturally in the female reproductive tract may actually improve or impair the sperm’s chance for reaching the egg.

Scientists from the University of Eastern Finland have discovered that the female reproductive tract has the ability to mediate a “post-mating sexual selection” towards some sperm.

The scientists studied the cervical mucous of females and found that there was a stronger effect on sperm from some males, and that the sperm that was more dissimilar genetically from the egg had an increased chance of fertilisation. Dr Jukka Kekäläinen, an Associate Professor in the Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences found that the results indicated that there is an immunogenetic capability when it comes to reproductive partners, the combination of both sperm and egg may be a highly selective process.0

“It is likely that gamete-level incompatibility can reduce the chance of conception but may not often completely prevent it,” Kekäläinen said. “Furthermore, gamete-level compatibility does not mean that partners are otherwise incompatible, with respect to their personalities.”

What does this mean for patients undergoing fertility?

This new research will help to improve our current understanding we have of undiagnosed infertility in many couples. Approximately 30% of patients experiencing infertility will struggle to find a diagnosis, which can be frustrating and discouraging. By improving our understanding of this area of infertility, it may help researchers and clinics to develop more personalised and accurate diagnoses.

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FAQ

How does Fertility First keep fertility treatment and IVF costs down?

As a Doctor-owned Medical Practice, our fertility and IVF treatment costs do not need to cover overheads and/or shareholder dividends, all of which have to come out of the income derived from patients’ treatment cycle fees at other fertility clinics in Sydney.

What is the NSW fertility treatment rebates?

From the 1st October 2022, the NSW Government announced a rebate of $2,000 in OOP expenses for all eligible patients. Fertility First is pleased to support the NSW Government’s fertility rebate at our Sydney fertility clinic.

What makes Fertility First different to other Sydney fertility clinics?

Fertility First is privately owned, which means we can place more focus on our patients. We offer a holistic approach to fertility and believe that it’s important to minimise the invasiveness of the fertility testing process and only carry out the necessary investigations, maximising your chance of a successful outcome. We offer extensive preliminary fertility testing, including Halosperm Assay.

We were one of the first Sydney fertility clinics to offer a donor sperm and donor egg program, thanks to our partnership with Central IVF.

How do I choose the best fertilty clinic for me?

Choosing the right fertility clinic in Sydney is a very important decision. You should consider factors like success rates, clinic location and appointment times, fertility treatment costs, repor with the Fertility Specialist and what treatment options are available.

Does Fertility First offer preliminary fertility testing?

Yes. We offer a range of fertility testing for both males and females. We aim to have fertility test results back within 2 to 3 weeks, which means, unless any assessment of the fallopian tubes is required, fertility treatment options can then be considered.

Does Fertility First offer treatment for same sex couples and singles?

Yes. Fertility First offers a range of fertility treatments that are suitable for same sex couples and singles, including our donor sperm program. See our fertility treatment page for a full guide.

Does Fertility First offer Medicare rebates?

Yes. In order to assist you with a Medicare rebate for your fertility treatment, you will need a current referral to Fertility First.

Note: GP referrals are valid for 12 months, and specialist referrals are valid for 3 months.

Does Fertility First offer IVF treatment?

Yes. IVF treatment is offered to suitable patients after preliminary testing.