Semen DNA Fragmentation Testing

DNA fragmentation testing is a type of male fertility test which measures the amount of damaged DNA in a sperm sample. All men have some amount of damage to their sperm DNA, but high percentages of damage may indicate greater difficulty achieving pregnancy with IUI and IVF.

Understanding DNA Fragmentation Results

Like any test ordered by your doctor, it is important to consult with your physician or other qualified health care provider regarding specific questions you may have about your DNA fragmentation results. However, on your report you will likely see a key with 4 values to help you understand your results:

Therefore, a patient with a DFI of 8.2% would fall into the “excellent to good” category with 8.2% of the sperm cells containing DNA damage. The test recommends that patients with a % DFI above 25% should skip IUI and go straight to IVF/ICSI for greatest success.

Popular Questions

Is Infertility just a woman’s problem

It is estimated that in about a  third of cases there can be an issue with the male however it is well documented that male factor infertility is on the increase worldwide. Female issues are diagnosed also in a third of cases, with a third combined factor, both male and female. 10% of cases are of unknown origin.

What things increase a woman’s risk of infertility?

Many things can change a woman’s ability to have a baby. These include:
– Age
– Smoking
– Excess alcohol use
– Stress
– Poor diet
– Athletic training
– Being overweight or underweight
– Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
– Health problems that cause hormonal changes, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome and primary ovarian insufficiency

How does age affect a woman’s ability to have children?

Many women are waiting until their 30s and 40s to have children. Age is a growing cause of fertility problems. About one-third of couples in which the woman is over 35 have fertility problems.

Aging decreases a woman’s chances of having a baby in the following ways:
– Her ovaries become less able to release eggs.
– She has a smaller number of eggs left.
– Her eggs are not as healthy.
– She is more likely to have health conditions that can cause fertility problems.
– She is more likely to have a miscarriage.

How long should women try to get pregnant before calling their doctor?

Most experts suggest at least one year. Women 35 or older should see their doctors after six months of trying. A woman’s chances of having a baby decrease rapidly every year after the age of 30.

Some health problems also increase the risk of infertility. So, women should talk to their doctors if they have:
– Irregular periods or no menstrual periods
– Very painful periods
– Endometriosis
– Pelvic inflammatory disease
– More than one miscarriage

It is a good idea for any woman to talk to a doctor before trying to get
pregnant. Doctors can help you get your body ready for a healthy baby. They
can also answer questions on fertility and give tips on conceiving.

I have irregular painful periods . Is it the cause of infertility?

Painful periods do not necessarily mean infertility. Regular painful periods are an indication of ovulatory cycles. However progressive pain before the menses or during the sexual act may signify endometriosis. Irregular menses should be investigated especially if you are obese.

30+ years experience in Fertility.

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