Sperm exposure and development of preeclampsia

Abstract Backgrounds: It is proposed that the excessive immunological response of mother to feto-placental unit follows by preeclampsia. Objective: To investigate whether the sperm exposure can reduce the incidence of preeclampsia by increased tolerance of mother to semen antigens. Methods: This was a prospective cohort study carried out on Iranian primigravid women receiving prenatal care at health clinics of hospitals affiliated to Isfahan University of Medical Sciences in 2006. The study population was divided into two groups marked as sperm-exposed group (n= 143) and non-exposed group (n=250). The data were collected using a questionnaire including information such as time interval between the beginning of sexual contact and conception, duration of sperm exposure, and the development of preeclampsia. Statistical analysis was performed using t-student test, chi square test, and logistic regression. Findings: Our results showed that the rate of preeclampsia in sperm-exposed group was significantly lower than that of non-exposed group (p=0.043). An inverse relationship between the length of exposure and the occurrence of preeclampsia was demonstrated (p=0.03). Conclusion: Exposure to sperm seems to offer protection against development of preeclampsia and preconception sexual contact over a long period could reduce the risk of preeclampsia.