Sperm DNA Damage Test, This is an advanced test that has gained importance in recent years in the evaluation of male infertility. While standard semen analysis evaluates sperm count, motility, and morphology, this test examines the genetic structure of the sperm cell, i.e., DNA integrity.
What does sperm DNA damage mean?
Even in seemingly normal sperm, DNA damage can occur. Studies show that even in men with normal sperm morphology, approximately 1 TP3T7–8 sperm have DNA damage. Sperm DNA damage is a critical factor, especially for embryo development, implantation, and the continuation of pregnancy.
What happens if sperm DNA damage is high?
High levels of DNA damage are associated with the following conditions:
- 🔹Immunization (IUI) failures
- 🔹In-vitro fertilization (IVF/ICSI) fertilization problems in applications
- 🔹Arrest in embryo development
- 🔹Recurrent IVF failures
- 🔹Early miscarriages and pregnancy losses
Who is recommended to have a sperm DNA test?
- Unexplained infertility cases
- Couples who have experienced failure in IVF treatment
- Recurrent pregnancy loss
- Men with varicocele, chronic prostatitis, or a history of infection.
- Individuals who smoke, consume alcohol, or consume excessive caffeine.
- Those experiencing intense stress or exposure to environmental toxins.
How are test results evaluated?
DNA Damage Level | Comment |
%0–10 | Normal |
%10–20 | Borderline (clinical condition must be taken into consideration) |
%20–30 | High (requires detailed examination and treatment) |
>%30 | Severely high (post-treatment reassessment recommended) |
What are the treatment options?
If the level of DNA damage is high, a plan is first developed to address the cause.
Treatments include:
- Antioxidant supplementation (especially for 3 months)
- If varicocele is present, surgical treatment
- Infection treatment
- Lifestyle changes (quitting smoking, healthy eating, stress management)
In men whose DNA damage does not reverse despite treatment, Testicular sperm retrieval (TESA) This method allows for in-vitro fertilization (IVF). This is because sperm taken directly from the testicles have a lower rate of DNA damage.
Sperm DNA Damage Test, This test is particularly valuable in guiding cases of unexplained infertility and IVF failures, and can even change treatment strategies.
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