Understanding The Effects Of Sperm DNA Fragmentation!

Sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) is a condition in which the genetic material (DNA) of sperm cells gets damaged.¹ Research shows that 1 in 5 men facing fertility problems have SDF levels over 30%.² This condition is triggered by factors like heat, smoking and pollutants that affect males of any age.

Moreover, it can also be caused by internal factors such as defective germ cell maturation (abnormal production of sperm cells in the testis), oxidative stress (phenomena when the body’s antioxidant levels are low), and abortive apoptosis (sudden death of cells in the body).² Apart from causing male infertility, there are several other effects of sperm DNA fragmentation, about which you’ll learn in this blog. So, let’s get started.  

5 Effects Of Sperm DNA Fragmentation

Under this section, we have listed 5 effects of sperm DNA fragmentation. Individuals experiencing male infertility of unknown cause may or may not experience these outcomes. Moreover, it’s important to note that most of the effects listed are based on studies conducted on couples who have undergone assisted reproductive technology (ART) such as IVF (in-vitro fertilization).

• Reduced Pregnancy Rate

The high levels of SDF, i.e.>30%, make it more challenging for couples to get pregnant. This correlation is noticeable in couples who undergo IVF treatments using assisted reproductive technologies. ^{3 4} 

• Risk Of Miscarriage

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) helps overcome natural fertilization challenges. Still, it's important to note that high sperm DNA fragmentation can be challenging. Couples choosing IVF with such sperm DNA fragmentation levels might face a higher chance of miscarriage and early pregnancy loss. This increased risk is due to the instability in the embryo's growth caused by the damaged genetic material in the sperm.⁵ 

• Fertilization Rate

The Fertilization rate is the percentage of eggs successfully combined with sperm in laboratory during artificial insemination.6 Research shows that sperm DNA fragmentation lowers this success rate. The observation is true for conventional insemination used in IVF treatments. ⁶  

However, a different situation arises for couples using ICSI to address  male infertility.  Studies have found that men with more than 15% sperm DNA fragmentation experienced similar success rates in ART as with lower levels of fragmentation.⁶ Moreover, the study also suggests the high success rate might have been due to ICSI, which involves directly injecting sperm into the egg. As a result, ICSI maintains a good fertilization rate even with higher DNA fragmentation in sperm.⁶   

• Quality Of Embryo

The first stage of fetal development, known as an embryo, begins soon after fertilization (conception) and lasts until the 7th or 8th week of pregnancy. The quality of the embryo is crucial to a successful pregnancy.⁷  

Furthermore, a study that looked at the effect of sperm DNA fragmentation on embryo quality discovered that fathers with SDF levels higher than 30.7% were linked with a reduced likelihood of creating “good quality embryos.” Therefore, couples wherein the father has SDF levels above 30.7% may have a lower likelihood of having a successful pregnancy.⁸

However, a different study also suggests that paternal age factor can also play a role in the deteriorated quality of embryo; as the men with age over 50 had significantly higher SDF levels.⁹ 

• Successful Embryo Implantation

The process of implantation takes place when the egg and sperm are fused to form a mass of cells (soon to be embryo) that attach to the uterine wall.¹⁰ As you may have understood so far, factors such as fertilization rate are imperative for a successful implantation of the embryo. Therefore, the associations between high sperm DNA fragmentation and low live birth rates is proof that SDF also negatively impacts implantation.³ 

Additionally, a study shows that couples with male partners having over 30% sperm DNA fragmentation experienced lower implantation rates. The implantation rates measure the percentage of embryos successfully attaching to the uterine wall. ¹¹  

Early Diagnosis Can Help Avert The Effects Of Sperm DNA Fragmentation

Up to this point, you have learned about the detrimental effects of sperm DNA fragmentation, which can pose serious roadblocks in one’s life. But what if we were to tell you that you can avoid these obstacles by taking just one step? A step that not only helps you to get a better picture of your sperm, but also provides the best path for your desired reproductive goals? Whether you are curious about the health of your sperm, considering delayed parenthood, or simply want to preserve your fertility until the timing is right for you, LifeCell's SpermVault can assist you in each of these scenarios.

SpermVault combines comprehensive sperm assessments with sperm preservation service. It tests for 11 sperm parameters, including DNA fragmentation analysis, and evaluates 14 sperm health conditions. Additionally, it securely preserves your sperm for your future use.

Final Note!

Sperm DNA fragmentation can cause male infertility and can potentially decrease the chances of a successful pregnancy in couples. However, it can be avoided by taking a DNA fragmentation test, which is included exclusively with LifeCell’s SpermVault service. This test can help identify the unknown cause of male infertility, understand abnormal semen analysis results. 

To learn more, simply call us at 1800 266 5533!