This is a perfect Friday post…now for something completely different.
There may be substances in semen that influence ovulation. Previously, it was known that certain species, like rabbits, reflex ovulate in reponse to sexual activity. The proteins responsible for this have evidently been isolated in Bulls and Llamas, and, when injected, have an interesting, pro-ovulation effect.
This protein has been isolated in humans as well, though the true impact has yet to be elucidated. Could this be a source of mystery? Could males pay a role in the ovulation process? And what does this say about the process of insemination and IVF, where this substance is washed away?
http://www.wired.com/wiredscience/2012/08/semen-ovulation-fertility/
Now, the theme of the article seems to suggest that this invalidates the rhythm method along with other fertility awareness (or NFP) activities. That shows the ignorance of the writer, as these methods require pretty significant times of sexual abstinence.
However, it could potentially give scientific power to the advice that most parents give to their children when teaching chastity….specifically that anytime that two people of the opposite gender engage in sexual activity, not only do they open themselves up to every other person that they have been exposed to,increasing the risk of infection, but they could become pregnant.
I am sure, as a matter of fact, that they will likely find that this response is stronger the younger the couple is.
The applications of this research could have implications both in licit and illicit treatments. The fact that it is in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences may indicate that it might be a while before it is ready for prime time…..but it is interesting.
St Anne, pray for us
Related articles
- Semen’s Secret Ingredient (news.sciencemag.org)
- Semen’s Secret Ingredient (news.sciencemag.org)
- Semen’s Secret Ingredient Induces Ovulation (wired.com)
- Hormone in semen may be behind ‘oops’ babies: researchers (canada.com)
- Protein in Semen Stimulates Ovulation in Female Brain (techie-buzz.com)
- Semen May Trigger Ovulation (livescience.com)
- Semen can affect a woman’s brain: Study (lfpress.com)
