Immune reaction side effect of a Vasectomy

Vasectomies have long been known to breach the barrier in the body that separates the immune cells from the sperm cell.  Speculation has been ongoing as to what type of long term physical side effects this breach may be responsible. 

The government’s Health publication #96-4094 states that, “Ordinarily, sperm do not come in contact with immune cells, so they do not elicit an immune response. But vasectomy breaches the barriers that separate immune cells from sperm, and many men develop anti-sperm antibodies after undergoing the procedure. This has given rise to concern on the part of doctors and researchers, because immune reactions against parts of one’s own body sometimes cause disease. Rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile diabetes, and multiple sclerosis are just some of the illnesses suspected or known to be caused by immune reactions of this type.

Immune reactions can also contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, the clogging of arteries that leads to heart attacks.” See the publication here: http://www.nichd.nih.gov/publications/pubs/vasectomy_safety.cfm

It is a certainty that many men (if not all) who have vasectomies develop antibodies to their own sperm.  The vasectomy has in effect set up a battle between the reproductive system and the immune system. 

Who would want their immune system to be compromised In this way?  The healthier your reproductive system (more sperm, stronger sperm, etc.) the more your immune system must battle those “pesky” sperm.  There is a type of a “feedback loop” created which can overwork the immune system and potentially cause catastrophic failure.

Because the current batch of studies cannot quantify or specifically name the exact negative consequences of these immune reactions should be no green light for the procedure.  Thoughtful men who value their health and their immune system will not be excited about the possibility of damaging or overworking their immune systems.  Many men who exercise regularly, watch what they eat, take vitamins religiously will still go ahead and open their immune system to this type of abuse.

This immune system problem should certainly be weighed in the decision making process for or against a vasectomy.