Immunocontraception

Immunocontraception

Immunocontraception (pronounced: im·​mu·​no·​con·​tra·​cep·​tion) is a birth control method that uses the body's immune response to prevent pregnancy. It is a type of contraception that involves the administration of a vaccine that stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies against specific components of the reproductive system.

Etymology

The term "immunocontraception" is derived from the words "immuno," referring to the immune system, and "contraception," referring to the prevention of pregnancy.

Mechanism of Action

Immunocontraception works by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies against certain proteins involved in reproduction. These antibodies can bind to the proteins and prevent them from functioning properly, thereby preventing pregnancy. The specific proteins targeted can vary depending on the type of immunocontraceptive used.

Types of Immunocontraception

There are several types of immunocontraception, including those that target sperm, eggs, or hormones involved in reproduction. Some examples include:

• Sperm immunocontraception: This type of immunocontraception involves the production of antibodies against sperm-specific proteins. When these antibodies bind to the proteins, they can prevent the sperm from fertilizing the egg.

• Egg immunocontraception: This type of immunocontraception involves the production of antibodies against egg-specific proteins. When these antibodies bind to the proteins, they can prevent the egg from being fertilized.

• Hormone immunocontraception: This type of immunocontraception involves the production of antibodies against hormones involved in reproduction. When these antibodies bind to the hormones, they can disrupt the normal reproductive cycle and prevent pregnancy.

Related Terms

• Contraception
• Immune system
• Antibodies
• Reproductive system
• Vaccine

See Also

• Birth control
• Family planning
• Reproductive health

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Immunocontraception
• Wikipedia's article - Immunocontraception

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