Women Pregnancy

Infertility may be becoming more of a man’s than a woman’s problem, both were level pegging - 40% of cases linked to men, 40% to women and 20% to joint problems. How much of a certain immune system protein a man’s semen contains could determine whether or not he can have children. Important issues related to the evaluation of the male factor include the most appropriate time for the male evaluation, the most efficient format for a comprehensive male exam, and definition of rationale and effective medical and surgical regimens in the treatment of these disorders.

The researchers found that the infertile men had MIF levels that were either too high or too low. Those who had no problems conceiving had levels that were just right. Identified more than 40 years ago, MIF plays an important role in the immune system by promoting inflammation. It is secreted by cells in the male testis and is found in seminal fluid. MIF has now been linked to many autoimmune and inflammatory diseases - such as diabetes and sepsis - and Dr. Al-Abed, who is an organic chemist by training, has been attempting to identify and design small molecules which would block MIF activity. (by Male Infertility Research)
However, the European Society for Human Reproduction and Embryology found rates of an IVF treatment typically used to help male infertility have risen. It said a number of factors including declining sperm quality due to environmental toxins may be involved.

Many couples experience significant apprehension and anxiety after only a few months of failure to conceive. Unduly prolonged unprotected intercourse should not be advocated before a workup of the man is instituted. Initial screening of the man should be considered whenever the patient presents with the chief complaint of infertility.
Past studies have found it plays a key role in sperm maturation. But MIF has also been linked to several autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, such as diabetes and sepsis, which is a systematic inflammatory response to infection. Unusually high levels of MIF have also been found in individuals suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.
About 15 percent of couples attempting to get pregnant for the first time experience problems conceiving. About 40 percent of infertility problems are due to disorders in the male.

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