Infertility due to sperm DNA fragmentation

Fragmentation damages sperm DNA, leading to difficulty conceiving naturally and a higher rate of miscarriage.

Abnormal sperm DNA can lead to reproductive disorders. Some studies have shown that sperm DNA and chromosome damage is associated with male infertility and reduced natural conception rates. The level of sperm DNA damage is associated with low fertility, failure to obtain blastocysts, impaired embryo development after embryo transfer, increased risk of recurrent miscarriage, reduced chance of successful implantation, and negative effects on human health.

Accordingly, sperm DNA fragmentation occurs when the DNA held inside the sperm head is damaged and the strands are broken. This is one of the leading causes of male infertility that cannot be diagnosed from a simple sperm test.

Most semen tests will check the basic parameters: sperm count per ml, morphology (size and shape), and motility (ability to swim in a straight line). All three of these factors are important when considering male fertility, but DNA fragmentation testing is often overlooked.

[Caption]. Photo: IVF London — Sperm DNA fragmentation affects male fertility, reduces the ability to conceive naturally and can easily cause miscarriage. Photo: *IVF London*

Sperm DNA fragmentation testing can help fertility specialists recommend the right fertility treatment the first time, saving time and money. Or if a man and his partner have had failed IVF or have had recurrent miscarriages, testing the quality of sperm DNA is essential.

DNA damage can occur during sperm production or while it is being stored in a man’s body. DNA strand breaks are often caused by oxidative stress, which creates free radicals that attack the DNA molecule. Sperm DNA fragmentation is therefore often associated with underlying medical conditions or certain lifestyle factors including: infection, varicocele; smoking, alcohol consumption, stress, poor diet, old age (over 45 years old). Most people are directly affected by these problems in their daily lives.

However, sperm are completely renewed every three months, so positive health changes, such as diet and lifestyle factors that reduce oxidative stress, can make a difference. Other treatment options may include varicocele repair or antibiotics in the case of infection.

Hai My ( According to Ferlity Family, Intech Open, IVF London )

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