Sperm toxicity of "nonspermicidal" lubricant and ultrasound gels used in reproductive medicine.

Three commercial, nonspermicidal gels used in fertility practice were found to be toxic to sperm in a 24-hr sperm survival assay; these included Felis, Replens, and Aquasonic Gel, which is used for transvaginal ultrasound during ovulation monitoring. In contrast, Pre-Seed did not cause any sperm toxicity, suggesting its appropriate use by patients who are trying to conceive, as well as clinicians during fertility procedures.