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Advanced Sperm DNA Fragmentation Testing

Sperm DNA Fragmentation Test in Delhi

Advanced Male Infertility Diagnostics at Akanksha IVF Centre

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Medically Reviewed & Approved by Dr. K.D. Nayar (Chief Consultant – Infertility & IVF)

Expertise: 40+ Years in Reproductive Medicine | Last Updated: May 2026

A routine semen analysis tests sperm count, motility, and shape — but it does not test the genetic quality of the sperm’s DNA. High sperm DNA fragmentation is a hidden but significant cause of IVF failure, poor embryo quality, and recurrent miscarriage — even in men with an apparently normal semen analysis. At Akanksha IVF Centre, Janakpuri, New Delhi, we offer advanced Sperm DNA Fragmentation Testing to identify this often-missed problem.

Book a Test – Call 098103 98765


What is Sperm DNA Fragmentation?

Inside each sperm is the man’s genetic contribution to the embryo — his DNA. This DNA is tightly coiled and protected by proteins. DNA fragmentation refers to breaks or damage in this DNA strand. When a sperm with high DNA fragmentation fertilises an egg, the embryo may:

  • Fail to develop properly in the laboratory (poor embryo quality)
  • Fail to implant in the uterus
  • Implant but miscarry early
  • Develop abnormally

Crucially, the egg has some capacity to repair sperm DNA damage — but only up to a point. Beyond a threshold, the damage overwhelms the egg’s repair mechanisms, particularly in older women whose eggs have reduced repair capacity.

Who Should Have a Sperm DNA Fragmentation Test?

  • Couples with unexplained infertility despite normal semen analysis
  • Men with normal count/motility but poor embryo quality in IVF cycles
  • Couples with recurrent miscarriage (2 or more losses)
  • Recurrent IVF or ICSI failure — especially with good embryos
  • Men over 40
  • Smokers, men with high fever history, or exposure to environmental toxins
  • Men with varicocele
  • Before starting any IVF/ICSI cycle — as a baseline assessment

How is the Sperm DNA Fragmentation Test Done?

The most accurate test is the SCSA (Sperm Chromatin Structure Assay) or TUNEL assay using flow cytometry. A semen sample is provided after 2–3 days of abstinence. The sample is processed and analysed in our laboratory. Results are reported as a DNA Fragmentation Index (DFI):

  • DFI below 15% — Normal. Minimal impact on fertility.
  • DFI 15–25% — Borderline. May affect IVF outcomes. Lifestyle changes recommended.
  • DFI above 25% — High fragmentation. Significant impact on IVF/ICSI results. Treatment needed.
  • DFI above 30% — Very high. Associated with poor embryo quality, implantation failure, and miscarriage.

Can High DNA Fragmentation Be Treated?

Yes — in many cases it can be significantly improved. Treatment depends on the cause:

  • Lifestyle changes — Quit smoking, reduce alcohol, avoid heat exposure (laptops on lap, hot baths), reduce stress. Results seen in 3 months.
  • Antioxidant supplements — Coenzyme Q10, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, zinc, selenium, folic acid. Reduce oxidative damage to sperm DNA.
  • Treat varicocele — Varicocele repair (varicocelectomy) can significantly reduce DNA fragmentation.
  • Microfluidic Sperm Sorting (MFSS) — At Akanksha IVF Centre, we use MFSS to physically select sperm with intact DNA for ICSI, bypassing the fragmented sperm. This is our most effective intervention for high DNA fragmentation.
  • TESA sperm for ICSI — Testicular sperm (retrieved by TESA) typically has lower DNA fragmentation than ejaculated sperm, particularly in men with very high ejaculate DFI. TESA sperm + ICSI is a proven strategy for these men.

Frequently Asked Questions – Sperm DNA Fragmentation Test Delhi

Can I have a normal semen analysis but high DNA fragmentation?

Yes. This is very common. A routine semen analysis only checks count, motility, and morphology — not DNA integrity. Many men with “normal” semen analyses have high DNA fragmentation, which is discovered only when IVF cycles fail unexpectedly or miscarriages occur.

Does age affect sperm DNA fragmentation?

Yes. DNA fragmentation increases with age, particularly after 40. Oxidative stress, reduced antioxidant capacity, and increased exposure to environmental damage over time all contribute. Men over 40 with fertility concerns should have a DFI test routinely.

How long does it take to reduce DNA fragmentation?

Lifestyle changes and antioxidant supplements take approximately 3 months to show results (one full sperm production cycle). Varicocele repair may take 3–6 months. MFSS and TESE sperm are immediate interventions — they work in the same cycle.

How much does the sperm DNA fragmentation test cost in Delhi?

Please call +91-9810398765 for current pricing at Akanksha IVF Centre. The test typically costs ₹3,000–₹7,000 at most centres in Delhi.

Optimize Your Embryo Quality & IVF Success

Don’t leave hidden male factors undetected. Consult Dr. K.D. Nayar for precision DFI analysis today.

Schedule Your Test Now


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