Detection of semen in cervicovaginal secretions.

Sperm were detectable by microscopic examination in human cervicovaginal lavage (CVL) specimens < or = 8 h after intercourse, whereas an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay using the monoclonal antibody MHS-5, specific for a seminal vesicle antigen present in semen detected semen at a concentration of 1:2,500,000 (0.00004%) in CVL specimens and was positive < or = 24 h following unprotected intercourse. We recommend the routine use of semen detection assays to reduce false-positive results attributable to semen contamination in assays of pathogens, antibodies, or other factors in cervicovaginal secretions.