Infertility affects men and women equally. Once thought to be solely a women’s issue, there are now many tests that can determine not only egg quality but also sperm quality.
DNA fragmentation tests offer valuable insights into the sperm’s ability to support a healthy pregnancy. This article explores what DNA fragmentation means, how it’s tested, and the available treatment options.
What Is DNA Fragmentation?
DNA fragmentation refers to damage to the genetic material (always known as DNA) carried by sperm cells. In other words, it provides valuable intel regarding the sperm’s ability to achieve a healthy pregnancy.
Sperm DNA Fragmentation Symptoms
Sperm DNA fragmentation doesn’t typically present with obvious physical symptoms. Couples may first learn about DNA fragmentation issues when facing infertility challenges. This may include:
- Difficulty conceiving despite regular unprotected intercourse
- Unexplained infertility, even with normal semen analysis results
- Recurrent pregnancy loss
- Failed IUI or IVF attempts
- Poor embryo development during fertility treatments
It’s important to note that these signs aren’t exclusive to DNA fragmentation and could be related to other fertility factors. However, certain risk factors may increase the likelihood of sperm DNA fragmentation, such as:
- Advanced paternal age
- Exposure to environmental toxinsSmoking or regular alcohol consumption
- High testicular temperature (including frequent hot tub use, tight clothing, or laptop use directly on lap)
- Certain medical conditions or medications
- Chemotherapy or radiation treatment
Men experiencing fertility challenges should discuss DNA fragmentation testing with their fertility specialist. This is especially true if they have any of the above mentioned risk factors.
What Is a DNA Fragmentation Test?
A DNA fragmentation test is a specialized laboratory analysis that evaluates the genetic quality of sperm by looking for DNA breakage. This advanced test examines the actual DNA structure within each sperm cell. Meanwhile, basic semen analysis looks at sperm quantity and movement.
How Does a DNA Fragmentation Test Work?
During the test, a semen sample is collected. The sample is then analyzed to determine the percentage of sperm with fragmented or damaged DNA.
The range of DNA fragmentation test results includes (normal range may vary depending on the specific assay used at your clinic):
- A DFI below 15% is considered excellent
- 15-25% is good to fair.
- Above 25% indicates significant DNA fragmentation that may impact fertility.
The entire testing process is non-invasive. It typically provides results within a few days to a week. These results ultimately help fertility specialists determine the most appropriate treatment approach.
How Common Is Sperm DNA Fragmentation?
Sperm DNA fragmentation is more common than many people realize. It affects approximately 20-30% of men seeking fertility treatment. The prevalence tends to increase with age, particularly after age 45. Yet, it can affect men at any age, depending on various factors.
Treatment Options for High DNA Fragmentation
DNA fragmentation treatment often involves a combination of lifestyle modifications and medical interventions.
Lifestyle Modifications
Several lifestyle changes can help improve sperm DNA quality, including:
- Reducing exposure to heat, such as avoiding hot tubs, saunas, and electrical devices or laptops on your lap.
- Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol.
- Maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise.
- Taking prescribed antioxidant supplements.
- Managing stress through relaxation techniques.
- Avoiding exposure to environmental toxins when possible.
Medical Interventions
Sometimes, lifestyle changes aren’t enough. In these cases, medical treatment can help. This may include:
- ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection): During IVF with ICSI, embryologists carefully select the healthiest-looking sperm. They then inject it directly into the egg. This technique can help bypass some of the challenges posed by DNA fragmentation.
- TESE (Testicular Sperm Extraction): Sperm taken directly from the testicles often has a lower risk of DNA fragmentation. Your doctor might recommend this procedure if other treatments haven’t been successful.
- Frequent Ejaculation: Your fertility specialist may suggest more frequent ejaculation before fertility treatment. This helps limit the time sperm spend stored in the reproductive tract, potentially reducing DNA fragmentation.
- ZyMōt: a process TRIO uses to select sperm with lesser DNA damage in males with high DNA Fragmentation Index (DFI). When used during IVF treatment, ZyMōt isolates the progressively motile sperm with the least amount of DNA fragmentation in the final sample to improve the chances of pregnancy.
How Much Does a DNA Fragmentation Test Cost?
The cost of a DNA fragmentation test in Canada typically ranges from $400 to $600, depending on your location and clinic. At TRIO Fertility, we provide up-to-date pricing during your consultation.
Insurance coverage for this test varies. Some extended health plans may cover part or all of the cost, especially if there’s a medical reason for the test. We recommend checking with your insurance provider to confirm your coverage.
While the cost may seem significant, it’s helpful to consider the value of the test. DNA fragmentation testing can uncover fertility issues that standard semen analysis might miss. This detailed information can play a key role in creating a tailored treatment plan. This means it could potentially save you time and money by avoiding less effective fertility treatments.
Your TRIO specialist will recommend the most suitable tests for your situation. For more information, learn about our SEED (Sperm Evaluation, Enhancement & Diagnostics) Program or talk to a TRIO Care Navigator.
References
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7988559/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7502318/
https://tau.amegroups.org/article/view/16120/html
