MAR test

MAR test is an important analysis that allows to detect one of the common causes of male infertility – the presence of antisperm antibodies in the semen. These antibodies can be formed in the body in response to various factors, such as inflammatory diseases, injuries or surgeries, and lead to impaired sperm motility and function. As a result, even with normal spermogram indicators, a man may have difficulties with conception.

MAR test (Mixed Antiglobulin Reaction test) helps to establish the immunological factor of infertility, which often remains unnoticed during a standard examination. Accurate and timely diagnostics make it possible to choose an effective treatment tactic and increase the chances of successful fertilization.

If you are planning parenthood or have encountered difficulties with conception – make an appointment with Oxford Medical specialists and get professional support to achieve the desired result.

MAR test is recommended when a man has fertility problems, but the results of a standard spermogram do not explain the cause of infertility. The main indications for the MAR test include:

• Unsuccessful attempts to conceive within 12 months of regular sexual life without the use of contraception.
• Detection of reduced sperm activity (asthenozoospermia) or their aggregation in a standard spermogram.
• Suspicion of an immunological factor of infertility - especially if there have been injuries, inflammatory diseases or surgical interventions on the organs of the genitourinary system in the past.
• Unclear factor of infertility in a couple after undergoing a full standard examination.
• High level of leukocytes in the semen, which may indicate hidden immune reactions.

The doctor may also recommend a MAR test in cases where the man has a history of chronic prostatitis, varicocele, epididymitis, orchitis, previous infections, or even allergic diseases.

The main task of the MAR test is to detect antisperm antibodies that bind to sperm and prevent them from performing their natural function. Antisperm antibodies (ASAT) can occur in response to trauma, inflammation, surgery, or even for no apparent reason, when the immune system mistakenly recognizes its own sperm as foreign cells.

The MAR test can detect the following pathological conditions:

• Immunological infertility, when the man's own immunity attacks sperm, making it difficult or impossible for them to move, penetrate cervical mucus, or interact with the egg.
• Reduced sperm motility - antibodies can "glue" sperm together or attach to their surface, making them inactive.
• Disturbances in the structure of sperm, when immune complexes change the surface structure of cells.
• Sperm aggregation and agglutination are phenomena when cells combine into clumps and lose the ability to actively move.
• Reduced likelihood of pregnancy even with normal sperm count and morphology.

Thanks to the MAR test, the doctor can determine whether further conservative treatment of immunological infertility is advisable, as well as select the optimal therapy tactics for a particular couple. The analysis allows you to avoid unjustified attempts at treatment and refer patients immediately to effective methods of assisted reproductive technologies.

Proper preparation for the MAR test is essential for obtaining accurate results. The main recommendations of doctors at the Oxford Medical Center for patients are as follows:

• Abstain from sexual intercourse 2–5 days before the test. This interval allows you to obtain the most informative ejaculate sample.
• Avoid alcohol and strong medications 3–5 days before the test.
• Before donating sperm, it is important to thoroughly perform hygiene procedures of the external genitalia to avoid contamination of the sample.
• You should not take the MAR test during acute inflammatory processes or elevated body temperature.
• It is not recommended to take the test immediately after prostate massage, physiotherapy procedures or intense physical exertion.

Ejaculate is usually collected by masturbation into a special sterile container. The Oxford Medical Center has created comfortable conditions for this so that patients do not experience unnecessary stress. If the patient is taking the test at home, it is very important to deliver the sample to the laboratory within 30-60 minutes, observing the appropriate temperature regime.

Following these recommendations helps to obtain the most reliable result and avoid false positive or false negative answers.

The interpretation of the MAR test results is carried out by a reproductive medicine doctor or andrologist, as the correct interpretation is important for determining further treatment tactics. The results are usually expressed in percentages - the proportion of spermatozoa on the surface of which antisperm antibodies are detected.

The main indicators of the MAR test:

• 0–10% - negative result, absence of an immunological factor of infertility.
• 10–40% - intermediate zone, the result requires additional assessment and consultation with a doctor.
• More than 40% - positive MAR test, indicating an immunological factor of infertility.

It is important to understand that a positive MAR test does not mean that the situation is hopeless. Modern treatment methods allow you to influence the immunological factor and increase the chances of conception even in the presence of antisperm antibodies. In some cases, immunomodulators, plasmapheresis are used, and when planning IVF - methods of selecting sperm that do not have antibodies on the surface.

The doctor always considers the results of the MAR test in combination with other sperm parameters, anamnesis and general health of the patient. Independent interpretation of the results is not recommended, as this may lead to erroneous conclusions and incorrect treatment tactics.

The cost of the MAR test at the medical center "Oxford Medical" in Kyiv is transparent and affordable for every patient. You can find out the price of the MAR test in Kyivhere.

If you are planning to become a father, are worried about your health or have already encountered difficulties with conception - do not delay. Modern diagnostics help to quickly determine the cause of infertility and choose the best path to the desired parenthood. Take the MAR test at the medical center "Oxford Medical" in Kyiv, get qualified help and personal recommendations from experienced doctors.