Sperm DNA fragmentation test
Assisted Reproduction:
Assessing the genetic quality of sperm for a successful pregnancy
At the Malavé Institute, as a clinic specialising in assisted reproduction, we strive to offer our patients the most advanced diagnostic tools to optimise the chances of achieving a healthy pregnancy. In this sense, the sperm DNA fragmentation test is positioned as a highly relevant test to assess the quality of the genetic material of spermatozoa.
It measures the integrity of the genetic material in a semen sample by analysing breaks or lesions in the DNA strands of the spermatozoa.
What is the sperm DNA fragmentation test?
The sperm DNA fragmentation test, also known as sperm DNA integrity analysis (SDA), is a test that evaluates the degree of damage present in the genetic material (DNA) of spermatozoa. DNA contains the cellular instructions that determine the development of an individual, so its integrity is fundamental for the conception of a healthy embryo and the correct development of a pregnancy. The greater the number of breaks or lesions in this genetic material, the more difficult it will be to achieve pregnancy.
Why is it important to perform the sperm DNA fragmentation test?
Sperm DNA fragmentation can have a negative impact on fertility, as it:
- It reduces the chances of conception: Sperm with fragmented DNA are less able to fertilise the egg.
- Increased risk of miscarriage: An embryo conceived with a sperm that has DNA fragmentation is more likely to fail to implant properly in the uterus or to miscarry during pregnancy.
- Affects embryo quality: Sperm DNA fragmentation can result in embryos of lower quality, with poorer development and less potential for gestational success.
In which cases is the sperm DNA fragmentation test recommended?
The sperm DNA fragmentation test is particularly recommended in the following cases:
- Couples having difficulty conceiving: If a couple fails to achieve pregnancy after 12 months of unprotected sex, the test can help identify sperm DNA fragmentation as a possible causative factor.
- Historial de abortos: Si una pareja ha experimentado abortos recurrentes, el test puede ayudar a determinar si la fragmentación del ADN espermático está contribuyendo a la pérdida gestacional.
- Assisted reproduction techniques: If a couple is undergoing assisted reproduction techniques such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), the test can help select the sperm with the best genetic quality to increase the chances of successful treatment.
How is the sperm DNA fragmentation test performed?
The sperm DNA fragmentation test is performed on a semen sample. The sample is analysed in a specialised laboratory using different techniques such as the TUNEL test (Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labelling) or the SCSA test (Sperm Chromatin Structure Assay). Test results are usually available within 2 to 4 weeks.
These techniques can be used to assess the fragmentation of single and double stranded sperm DNA, with the cut-off point for total DNA fragmentation being set at 20%, and values above this figure being considered pathological.
Several studies suggest that treatment with antioxidants can significantly reduce DNA fragmentation levels. But some patients may not respond well to this treatment, especially when the DNA damage is caused by toxic factors.
What does a positive sperm DNA fragmentation test result mean?
A positive result in the sperm DNA fragmentation test indicates that there is a significant percentage of spermatozoa with damage to their genetic material. Although this does not mean that the couple is infertile, it can affect the chances of achieving a spontaneous or successful pregnancy through assisted reproduction techniques, so different methodologies will be applied to try to correct these alterations as much as possible.
If you are considering a sperm DNA fragmentation test or have any doubts about your semen quality, please do not hesitate to contact us for a consultation with our specialists.
