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DNA fragmentation
DNA fragmentation analysis measures the degree of damage to DNA molecules in spermatozoa.
Since that DNA fragmentation can affect the conception and development of the embryo, this test is important in certain clinical situations.
What is DNA fragmentation?
DNA fragmentation are chemical changes in the structure of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) in spermatozoa.
Considering that DNA has "two strands", the damage can be in one or more of both strands.
It is one of the most common genetic changes in spermatozoa and occurs during the process of spermatozoa development and as a result of oxidative stress in certain pathological conditions.
When is sperm DNA fragmentation done?
Spermatozoa with a high degree of DNA fragmentation have the ability to fertilize an egg cell, but studies show that these spermatozoa can negatively affect the significance of the embryo, implantation and pregnancy development both in spontaneous pregnancies and after in vitro fertilization. The egg cell has the ability to repair DNA damage, but this repair mechanism declines with the age of the egg cell.
DNA fragmentation is performed:
- in case of repeated spontaneous abortions;
- poor fertilization in the IVF procedure when the standard IVF technique was applied in the laboratory;
- infertility in couples where the semen analysis is normal and where woman's findings are normal;
- more unsuccessful IVF procedures.
DNA fragmentation in the Gyn.Fertility Clinic Milenković
DNA fragmentation is analyzed in the Gyn. Fertility Clinic Milenković sperm chromatin dispersion test (SCD).
- Abstinence for 2-7 days is advised, primarily in order to eliminate some lifestyle habits that can affect the result of the analysis.
- It is necessary to keep the complete ejaculate in one container. The container is available at the Clinic or you can buy a sterile urine bottle at the pharmacy.
- The sample can be brought from home or given at the Clinic.
- Analysis of semen for DNA fragmentation begins no later than one hour after ejaculation.
- It is necessary to schedule an analysis of DNA fragmentation of spermatozoa at the Gyn-Fertility Clinic Milenković.
- The procedure takes about 3 hours.
- The percentage of DNA fragmentation is estimated.
- After the results of the DNA fragmentation analysis, a consultation is scheduled with both partners. The assessment is individual and there is no precisely defined border between normal and pathological values. Smoking cessation and a healthy lifestyle reduce DNA fragmentation.
- When the DNA fragmentation is greater than 25%, the ICSI method is performed in the in vitro fertilization procedure.
- DNA fragmentation is at a lower level after a shorter period of abstinence, as well as in spermatozoa obtained after TESE, that is, testicular biopsy.
The decision on further treatment is made after a detailed analysis of all parameters for both partners.
If you have additional questions, please feel free to contact us.
You can expect an answer during office hours, from Monday to Friday, between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m.
