RESUMO
PIP: In order to study the cyclic variations in the immunoglobulins of the human vaginal fluid, vaginal secretions were obtained from 12 volunteers during the follicular phase (Days 7-12 of cycle) and from 12 during the luteal phase (Days 18-25 of cycle). At follicular phase, immunoglobulin G was present in all samples, and immunoglobulin A similar to serum immunoglobulin A was found occasionally. At luteal phase, immunoglobulin G apparently occurred at a greater concentration, and another immunoglobulin A, different from the serum type, was found. No immunoglobulin M was detected in any sample. It is postulated that the cyclic variations in immunoglobulins of human vaginal fluid, which occur under normal conditions could be 1) related to the plasma cells found in the vaginal mucosa and 2) mediated by the ovarian hormones.^ieng