1.What is sperm DNA integrity test?
The genetic material of sperm is chromosomes, which are made up of a combination of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). Sperm DNA integrity is the basis for the correct transmission of genetic material from parent to offspring and plays an important role in fertilization and embryo development. The sperm DNA integrity test reflects the degree of sperm DNA damage and is a common indicator for determining idiopathic male infertility, recurrent miscarriage, assisted reproduction and eugenic prognosis.
2.What clinical problems may be caused by sperm DNA damage?
Damage to sperm DNA may lead to male infertility, lower natural pregnancy rates, lower success rates of IVF and IUI, and increased incidence of miscarriage.
3.What are the main causes of sperm DNA damage?
①Diseases: varicocele, orchitis, epididymitis, hyperthermia and genital tumors, etc;
②Drugs: hormones, radiotherapy, chemotherapy drugs and immunosuppressive drugs;
③ bad habits: smoking, alcoholism, staying up late, drug abuse, overwork, sedentary and other bad habits;
④Environmental pollution: pesticides, heavy metals, high temperature, cell phones, computers, paint, welding, radiation, printing, sewage and other environmental pollution;
⑤ Age: the age of the oxidative stress capacity is reduced, hormone level changes, physical decline and other factors;
⑥Psychological factors, etc.
4.Who needs to do sperm DNA integrity testing?
①Male infertility patients with repeated spontaneous abortions and embryonic abortions on the female side;
②Male infertility patients who have been unsuccessful in using assisted reproduction for many times;
③Patients with idiopathic male infertility (except azoospermia) who exclude female factors;
④Older patients who intend to use assisted reproduction for pregnancy;
⑤ Pre-fertility eugenics examination can be optional.
5.How to see the sperm DNA integrity test results?
For the results of sperm DNA integrity test, the sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI) is generally used.
(DFI), currently it is considered that: DFI ≤ 15% is normal, 15% is normal.
6.How to treat high sperm DNA fragmentation index?
For patients with high DFI, it is recommended to improve bad habits, avoid contact with smoking, alcohol, drugs and other reproductive toxic substances and sauna and other excessive heat; take antioxidants, such as vitamin supplements; anti-infection treatment if there is an infection; surgical treatment for the cause, such as varicocele ligation; Chinese herbal medicines such as Yi Qi, kidney tonic, Qi, blood, heat, dampness and other drugs have obvious antioxidant effects. Chinese herbal medicines have obvious antioxidant effects and can reduce the sperm DNA fragmentation index, which can be used clinically with evidence.