Impact of Semen on Vaginal Cytokines
Author Information
Author(s): Kathy J. Agnew, Aura Jan, Norma Nunez, Zandra Lee, Rick Lawler, Carol E. Richardson, Jennifer Culhane, Jane Hitti
Primary Institution: University of Washington
Hypothesis
The presence of semen would increase the concentrations of vaginal proinflammatory cytokines and SLPI.
Conclusion
The presence of semen does not affect vaginal proinflammatory cytokine concentrations, but it is associated with higher secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor concentrations.
Supporting Evidence
- 20% of subjects had acid phosphatase detected in vaginal fluid.
- 68% of women with acid phosphatase reported recent intercourse.
- Secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor concentrations were significantly higher among women with acid phosphatase.
Takeaway
This study looked at whether semen changes certain substances in vaginal fluid. It found that while semen doesn't change some markers, it does increase a specific protein level.
Methodology
Vaginal fluid was collected from 138 pregnant women to measure cytokines and secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor concentrations using enzyme immunoassay.
Potential Biases
Subject history may not be a reliable indicator for detecting semen presence.
Limitations
Findings may not be generalizable to nonpregnant populations and cytokine degradation over time could not be determined.
Participant Demographics
Participants were pregnant women, median age 27, with a mix of races including White, African American, Hispanic, and Asian.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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