Evaluation of Antispermatogenic Effects of Yarrow in Mice

ackground: Male contraception is necessary for control of population growth in developing
countries. There are several methods for contraception in females but there is no definite method
for males. In this study, we evaluated the effects of yarrow extract on spermatogenesis in Suri mice.
Materials and Methods: Twenty five mice were divided into 5 groups. They were treated by
ethanolic extract, hydroalcoholic extract, sham groups for them and control group. After treatment
period, their testes were studied histologically. Degenerated cells, giant cells, complete
spermatogenesis in different tubules and disorganization were evaluated. Difference between
pretest and posttest body weight and gonadal weight index were also evaluated.
Results: There were statistically significant difference between groups for degenerated cells,
giant cells, complete spermatogenesis in different tubules and disorganization (P<0.05). The
difference between pretest and posttest body weight and gonadal weight index were not statistically
significant. No complete maturation arrest was noted in the specimens.
Conclusion: Although a quantitative difference was noted between groups, but we cannot
recommend yarrow for male contraception, because it could not stop spermatogenesis completely.