Peritoneal fluid environment and infertility.

The PF environment is one that hosts the processes of ovulation, gamete transportation, fertilization, and early embryonic development. The cellular and acellular constituents of this dynamic fluid are in a constant interactive state, being influenced by the physiologic events of the menstrual cycle and pelvic disease processes; these constituents probably influence disease manifestation and reproduction. The importance of understanding this zone of early reproductive life has been now recognized. We hope that future investigations will define the exact role(s) of known components and some yet-to-be defined substances of PF in disease processes that affect reproductive function. With better understanding of normal and abnormal events in this pelvic microenvironment, we can develop rationales for novel treatment modalities.