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Couple's Immune System Attacked Husband's DNA
12 Jan
Summary
- A genetic predisposition caused the wife's immune system to attack the husband's DNA.
- The couple pursued LIT therapy, an immunotherapy to build immune tolerance.
- Openly sharing their fertility struggles aims to help other couples feel less alone.
Alex and Paul Klein discovered a unique biological challenge two years into their marriage: Alex's immune system was incompatible with Paul's DNA, preventing conception. After unexplained infertility and unsuccessful IVF rounds, at-home blood tests revealed Alex's body viewed Paul's DNA as foreign, triggering an immune response. This diagnosis, though emotionally challenging, provided clarity and paved the way for specialized treatment.
The couple began Lymphocyte Immunotherapy (LIT), a process involving injecting processed samples of Paul's blood into Alex. This treatment aims to retrain Alex's immune system to accept Paul's genetic material. Alongside other immune-regulating therapies, Alex was several months into the six-month treatment plan when sharing her story.
Paul emphasized the importance of men discussing fertility issues, citing shame as a common barrier. By sharing their journey, the Kleins hope to destigmatize male infertility and reassure other couples facing similar struggles. They stressed the importance of facing infertility as a united front, finding hope in their proactive approach to overcoming this biological hurdle.
