ReproMed

Sperm DNA fragmentation is a condition that can lead to male-factor infertility, IVF failure, and miscarriage. If you’re not sure about what sperm DNA fragmentation is and how it affects fertility, you’re not alone.

Several factors, such as illness, injury, and lifestyle choices, can cause sperm DNA fragmentation.

The Exact test evaluates three different parameters of DNA fragmentation in comparison to a fertile reference range:

1. The average level of sperm DNA fragmentation
2. The percentage of healthy sperm
3. The percentage of unhealthy sperm

While there may not be any obvious symptoms of sperm DNA damage, a sperm DNA fragmentation test can evaluate sperm quality and identify the presence of DNA damage.

The test involves collecting a semen sample, which is then analysed in a laboratory using specialised techniques to assess the amount of DNA damage present in the sperm. The results of the test are usually expressed as a percentage of sperm with damaged DNA, known as the DNA fragmentation index (DFI).

• Healthy sperm = low DNA fragmentation
• Unhealthy sperm = high DNA fragmentation