Navigating the Emotional Rollercoaster of Infertility During the Holidays
The holidays can be emotional, especially if you’ve been struggling with infertility. Here are some ways you can prioritize your well-being.
Sperm DNA Fragmentation & Miscarriage
In couples who experience recurrent miscarriage, sperm DNA fragmentation testing can identify genetic abnormalities that may contribute to the problem.
While semen analysis measures the amount, movement, shape of sperm, it does not reveal genetic abnormalities. Sperm DNA fragmentation testing examines the genetic components of sperm to determine whether or not there is fragmentation (damage). Sperm DNA fragmentation has been linked to recurrent pregnancy loss.
THE POTENTIAL IMPACT OF SPERM DNA FRAGMENTATION ON PREGNANCY
- Difficulty conceiving or failure to conceive
- Increased risk of miscarriage
- Abnormal embryo development
- Higher rate of pregnancy loss after in vitro fertilization (IVF) and Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)
CAUSES OF SPERM DNA FRAGMENTATION
Oxidative stress is a major cause of sperm DNA fragmentation and can cause defects in sperm chromatin packing or DNA repair mechanisms. There are numerous factors that contribute to sperm DNA fragmentation including:
- Infection
- Elevated testicular temperature due to fever or prolonged and excessive heat exposure
- Stress
- Prescription medications and illicit drug use
- Smoking
- Industrial pollution
- Chemicals (particularly those linked to paternal occupation)
- Obesity
- Poor diet
- Varicocele
- Cancer & cancer treatment
- Advanced paternal age
DIAGNOSING SPERM FRAGMENTATION DNA
A semen sample is needed to test for sperm DNA fragmentation. There are a number of test methods including:
- Halosperm kit
- Tunel assay
- Comet assay
- Sperm Chromatin Structure Assay
TREATING SPERM DNA FRAGMENTATION ASSOCIATED WITH RECURRENT MISCARRIAGE
Treatment of the DNA damage is determined by the cause. Lifestyle adjustments including smoking cessation, avoiding drug use, protecting the testes from heat and dietary improvements including adding foods rich in antioxidants may be beneficial in reducing sperm DNA fragmentation.
Infections should be treated with appropriate antibiotic therapy, and varicocele repair is recommended.
ICSI may improve conception rates since the sperm can be injected directly into the egg.
Contact your local URA clinic in Hasbrouck Heights, Hoboken, and Wayne, NJ for more information. Your friendly URA team will be happy to administer sperm DNA fragmentation tests and provide treatment options.
You Might Also Enjoy...
How to Talk About Infertility With Family and Friends During Gatherings
If you or someone in your family or friends circle is struggling with infertility, gatherings can be times of anxiety because of invasive questions or unwanted advice. We offer some guidance in this blog post.
What Is the Difference Between IUI and IVF?
If you’re looking for solutions to infertility, you may be recommended for intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in-vitro fertilization (IVF). But what’s the difference? Keep reading to find out.
Can I Get Pregnant If I Have PCOS?
Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome can impact your fertility, making it difficult to get pregnant. Here’s what you need to know.
What Can I Expect Before, During, and After the Egg Harvesting Procedure?
Do you need to harvest your eggs to freeze them or before beginning a round of IVF? Here’s a breakdown of the procedure to help you be informed before you start the process. Keep reading.
I've Had Multiple Miscarriages: Should I Stop Trying?
A miscarriage is devastating, and multiple miscarriages only expand and prolong your grief. Should you give up, or should you keep trying for a baby? Keep reading for some answers.