DNA Fragmentation is a male fertility test that evaluates the amount of damaged DNA in a sperm sample. Damaged DNA occurs when the strands or chains within the DNA structure are broken. While all men have some degree of DNA damage in their sperm, high percentages of damage may indicate challenges in achieving and sustaining pregnancy.
For years, male fertility testing has primarily relied on a basic semen analysis, assessing sperm concentration, morphology, and motility. However, approximately 30% of men facing infertility remain undiagnosed. While the semen analysis provides fundamental insights, it doesn't offer a comprehensive or predictive evaluation of male fertility. Consequently, there's a growing recognition of the necessity for more thorough sperm quality testing.
Sperm cells, carry vast amounts of genetic information to the egg. Packing so much DNA into such a small cell often results in some DNA not arriving intact. The DNA Fragmentation test measures the percentage of breaks present in sperm DNA.
Research has explored how the level of DNA damage in sperm DNA can serve as an indicator for male infertility. Despite advancements in understanding sperm DNA damage, its exact cause remains elusive. Notably, the level of sperm damage doesn't always correlate with results from a semen analysis. In other words, normal sperm count, motility, and morphology don't necessarily guarantee low DNA damage levels.
DNA Fragmentation identifies chromosomal breaks and is recommended later in the fertility journey, especially in cases of recurrent pregnancy loss. In the pursuit of pregnancy, a holistic approach to fertility care is essential. Both partners need comprehensive information about their reproductive health to plan effectively. By utilising tests like DNA Fragmentation, individuals can gain insights into their unique biology and take charge of their path to pregnancy.
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