Sperm toxicity of "nonspermicidal" lubricant and ultrasound gels used in reproductive medicine

Fertil Steril. 2011 Feb;95(2):835-6. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2010.09.011. Epub 2010 Oct 25.

Abstract

Three commercial, nonspermicidal gels used in fertility practice were found to be toxic to sperm in a 24-hr sperm survival assay; these included Felis, Replens, and Aquasonic Gel, which is used for transvaginal ultrasound during ovulation monitoring. In contrast, Pre-Seed did not cause any sperm toxicity, suggesting its appropriate use by patients who are trying to conceive, as well as clinicians during fertility procedures.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Drug Evaluation, Preclinical
  • Gels / pharmacology*
  • Humans
  • Lubricants / adverse effects*
  • Male
  • Organic Chemicals / pharmacology
  • Reproductive Medicine / methods*
  • Semen Analysis
  • Spermatocidal Agents / pharmacology
  • Spermatozoa / drug effects*
  • Spermatozoa / physiology
  • Time Factors
  • Ultrasonography / methods*

Substances

  • Aquasonic
  • Gels
  • Lubricants
  • Organic Chemicals
  • Spermatocidal Agents