The Kremer test checks whether sperm cells can enter the cervical mucus and survive there. Antibodies can be present in the cervical mucus which are directed against the sperm cells and make them immotile. This can be an obstacle for the sperm cells on their way to the egg cell.
To find out whether there are antibodies against sperm cells in the cervical mucus, a sample of the cervical mucus is taken from the cervix with a pipette. At the same time, a sperm sample from the partner is needed; this sample can either be obtained directly at the Kinderwunschzentrum an der Wien or alternatively brought from home within 60 minutes, warm from the body. In the laboratory it is then checked whether the sperm cells are able to migrate unhindered into the mucus and move around there. If sperm cells become immotile in the cervical mucus, it can be concluded that antibodies are present.
An abnormal test result can - if there are no other reasons - be a cause for the absence of a pregnancy.