Sperm DNA Fragmentation: What You Need to Know | Lalana Songra
What is sperm DNA fragmentation, why does it matter for male fertility, and what can a DNA fragmentation test actually tell you?
In this episode of The Male Fertility Podcast, we kick off a new mini-series exploring sperm DNA fragmentation, in partnership with Examen Lab.
We’re joined by Lalana Songra, Chief Medical Advisor at Examen Lab, to break down the science behind sperm DNA fragmentation and explain what men and couples need to know about sperm DNA damage, testing and sperm health.
We start with the basics: what DNA is, how it is packaged inside sperm, and what happens when that DNA becomes fragmented. Lalana explains the difference between single-stranded and double-stranded DNA fragmentation, why different types of damage may have different implications, and some of the factors that can contribute to sperm DNA damage.
We then explore how DNA fragmentation fits into the wider fertility journey.
A standard semen analysis provides important information about sperm count, motility and morphology, but it does not assess sperm DNA integrity in the same way. So when might DNA fragmentation testing be considered? Why isn't it routinely offered to every man experiencing fertility problems? And how should men understand the results they receive?
We also discuss recurrent pregnancy loss, IVF, ICSI, testicular sperm retrieval, fertility clinic practice and the current evidence around DNA fragmentation testing.
Importantly, this isn't a conversation about presenting DNA fragmentation as a simple answer to infertility. Lalana explains where the evidence currently stands, what we still need to understand, and why further research is needed to establish how earlier testing might influence natural conception, fertility treatment outcomes, safety and cost effectiveness.
We also finish by looking at male preconception health and sperm health, including lifestyle, diet, stress, sleep and other factors that may influence sperm DNA integrity.
Questions we explore in this episode
- What is sperm DNA fragmentation?
- What does DNA fragmentation actually mean?
- Can you have a normal semen analysis but still have sperm DNA fragmentation?
- What causes sperm DNA fragmentation?
- What is the difference between single- and double-stranded DNA fragmentation?
- How is sperm DNA fragmentation tested?
- When might DNA fragmentation testing be considered?
- Why isn't DNA fragmentation testing routine?
- Could sperm DNA fragmentation be relevant to recurrent pregnancy loss?
- What can men do to support better sperm health?
About Lalana Songra
Lalana Songra is Chief Medical Advisor at Examen Lab. In this episode, she helps us understand the science behind sperm DNA fragmentation and where the current evidence sits.
About Examen Lab
This mini-series is made in partnership with Examen Lab, helping us explore the science behind sperm DNA fragmentation and give men and couples a clearer understanding of what the research tells us.
Find out more about Examen Lab and DNA fragmentation testing:
Examen Lab: https://examenlab.com/
Find an Examen Lab partner clinic: https://examenlab.com/hubs-partner-clinics/
Email: [email protected]
About The Male Fertility Podcast
The Male Fertility Podcast exists to change the conversation around male fertility and men's reproductive health.
We talk openly about sperm health, male infertility, semen analysis, fertility testing, fertility treatment, IVF, ICSI, lifestyle, testosterone and the experiences that men often don't talk about.
Because fertility isn't just a women's issue.
Find out more about The Male Fertility Hub: https://www.themalefertilityhub.com/
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: @themalefertilitypodcast
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