Why is Sperm Not Entering My Cervix?

Several factors can prevent sperm from entering your cervix, though it's relatively rare for this to be the primary cause of infertility. Potential reasons include issues with cervical mucus, cervical abnormalities, or problems with sperm deposition.

Potential Reasons Sperm Isn't Entering the Cervix:

• Abnormal Cervical Mucus:

  • Healthy cervical mucus is thin and watery around ovulation, allowing sperm to easily swim through it and into the uterus.
  • If the mucus is thick, scant, or hostile (meaning it contains antibodies that attack sperm), it can hinder sperm passage.
  • Causes of abnormal cervical mucus:
    • Hormonal imbalances (e.g., low estrogen).
    • Cervical infections.
    • Certain medications.
    • Scar tissue in the cervix (cervical stenosis).

• Cervical Stenosis:

  • This is a narrowing or blockage of the cervical opening.
  • It can be caused by:
    • Surgery on the cervix (e.g., LEEP procedure, cone biopsy).
    • Infection.
    • Radiation therapy.
    • Cancer.
  • Stenosis can physically prevent sperm from entering.

• Sperm Deposition Issues:

  • If sperm isn't deposited close enough to the cervix during intercourse, it might not be able to reach the cervical opening. This could be due to:
    • Improper timing of intercourse relative to ovulation.
    • Erectile dysfunction preventing deep penetration.
    • Using lubricants that are spermicidal or create a barrier.

• Retrograde Ejaculation:

  • While less directly related to cervical entry, if a significant amount of semen goes into the bladder instead of out the urethra, less will be available to enter the cervix.

What To Do If You Suspect This is Happening:

1. Consult a doctor or fertility specialist. They can perform tests to assess your cervical mucus, examine your cervix, and evaluate your partner's sperm.
2. Postcoital test (PCT): This test, although less commonly performed now, involves examining cervical mucus a few hours after intercourse to see if motile sperm are present. Note that its reliability has been questioned, and it's not routinely recommended.
3. Assess sperm quality: A semen analysis evaluates sperm count, motility, and morphology.
4. Consider intrauterine insemination (IUI): This procedure bypasses the cervix by placing sperm directly into the uterus.
5. Track your ovulation: Understanding your cycle helps ensure intercourse occurs when cervical mucus is most favorable.

While problems with sperm entering the cervix aren't usually the primary cause of infertility, they can contribute. Addressing underlying issues like hormonal imbalances or cervical abnormalities can improve your chances of conception.