The Role Of Sperm DNA Damage In Recurrent Pregnancy Loss

Did you know? 2 to 5% of couples are affected by Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL), making it a significant reproductive health issue.¹ RPL is characterized by the occurrence of two or more consecutive pregnancy losses following which a thorough physical examination and tests are recommended.² Unfortunately, despite undergoing extensive tests, more than 40% of couples are left without a clear explanation for their recurrent pregnancy loss. ³

While research on RPL has traditionally focused on maternal factors, there’s growing evidence highlighting the influence of the male factor in this condition. And, a particular area of interest has been the Sperm DNA Fragmentation Index (DFI), a key measure to evaluate the amount of DNA damage in a sperm sample.³ High levels of sperm DNA fragmentation have also been linked with a greater risk of pregnancy loss following in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).⁴ Read on to learn more about the role of sperm DNA damage in recurrent pregnancy loss and unsuccessful Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ARTs).

The Crucial Role Of Sperm DNA Damage In Recurrent Pregnancy Loss

The genetic makeup of a newborn is determined by the DNA information from both the egg and sperm, which is important for proper embryo and fetal development. Any damage to the DNA of any gametes can lead to a disruption of the reproductive process.⁵ 

Among males, sperm DNA fragmentation is frequently observed in subfertile and infertile men and is a common cause of paternal DNA anomalies (abnormality).⁵ Studies indicate that sperm-related issues account for 30-50% of infertility cases such as low sperm concentration, morphological abnormalities, and poor sperm motility. In such instances, high levels of sperm DNA fragmentation may be the underlying cause of infertility.⁶

Sperm DNA fragmentation can negatively impact embryo development, implantation, and pregnancies (natural as well as assisted). This is because sperm cannot repair the damage caused by DNA fragmentation which results in the accumulation of fragmented DNA. It is normal to have fragmented sperm DNA to some extent, but if it goes beyond a certain threshold, it may lead to fertility problems reducing the chance of conceiving.⁷

What Research Says On The Role Of Sperm DNA Damage In Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL)

Multiple studies have examined the correlation between sperm DNA fragmentation and recurrent pregnancy loss,⁸ with the following results:

• Patients who undergo recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) before reaching 20 weeks of gestation are associated with significantly higher levels of SDF, as compared to normal patients.⁹
• Similarly, another study found that couples experiencing recurrent miscarriages had higher levels of SDF and lower levels of total and progressive motility as compared to couples who did not.⁸

Research Data On The Role Of Sperm DNA Damage In Unsuccessful Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ARTs)

Studies have also found a connection between increased levels of sperm DNA fragmentation and a greater risk of pregnancy loss after undergoing IVF and ICSI.⁴ Here are a few findings from such studies:

• A meta-analysis reported that men with high SDF levels had significantly lower live birth rates after IVF and ICSI.⁹
• Another study found that when the DNA fragmentation index exceeds 30%, the likelihood of successful pregnancy outcomes were considerably lower in several intrauterine insemination (IUI) cycles.⁵

In summary, the research data reveals that sperm DNA fragmentation is associated with higher miscarriage rates and increased risk of pregnancy loss after fertility treatments.⁴

Ending Note

We hope that you got a fair idea about the role of sperm DNA damage in recurrent pregnancy loss and unsuccessful fertility treatments by reading this blog. By taking suitable measures in a timely manner, you can proactively stay informed about the health of your sperm. You can easily understand the percentage of genetically damaged sperm and get clarity on your reproductive health. And that too right from the comfort of your home! Wondering how? Then, LifeCell’s SpermVault is the answer to your question. 

SpermVault is India’s first private long-term sperm bank that offers at-home self-collection of semen samples. This kit can not only give clarity on 11 sperm parameters (including DNA fragmentation) & 14 sperm health conditions, but also preserve your swimmers for future use. To know more about SpermVault, call us at 1800 266 5533.