Human ovarian cyclic function is a complex process. Ovarian failure can lead to a loss of not only female hormonal function, which depends on cyclic changes of gonadotropin levels, but to the absence of oocytes. Whereas there are numerous factors associated with ovarian dysfunction and de- creased female fertility, the autoimmune mechanisms have been put forward by several investigators. In ovarian pathology, such as idiopathic infertility, premature ovarian failure and polycystic ovarian syndrome, immunological etiology has been suggested.

Infertility is estimated to affect one of every five Polish couples in the reproductive age. Antisperm antibodies (ASA) are considered to be the main cause for immunological infertility, but it is still relatively little known about the specific mechanisms that elicit development of auto- and isoim- mune reactions in humans. Antibodies directed to sperm antigens can be detected in serum of men and women, but also in reproductive tract secretions such as seminal fluid, where they can be bound to the sperm surface.