The effects of prostaglandins on sperm motility.

Inflammatory exudates around intrauterine devices were found to produce large concentrations of prostaglandin F2alpha. To evaluate the effect of this substance, 100 semen specimens were incubated in concentrations 100 times greater than that found in normal semen. Motility indices were calculated, and significant inhibition of sperm motility was found. The effect of prostaglandin E on sperm motility is also reviewed. The physiology of prostaglandins and their mechanism of action via the cyclic nucleotide system are discussed.