Sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) testing is being used to help understand the male partner’s contribution to fertilization rates, pregnancy rates, and miscarriage rates. Dr. Parviz Kavoussi was amongst the lead authors publishing a research study investigating the global practices of management of infertile men with elevated SDF, reviewing the society guidelines on management of elevated SDF in infertile men, and finally providing expert recommendations for the management of infertile men with elevated SDF. The recommendations for infertile men with elevated SDF are specific to specific situations such as varicocele (abnormally dilated veins around the testicle) repair in men with varicoceles, antibiotics for men with infection in the reproductive tract, weight loss for obesity, lifestyle modifications when indicated, and even surgical testicular sperm retrieval when indicated. Dr. Kavoussi comments, “It is a big step forward to have a functional test of sperm to assess their health and ability to perform well, but just as important is to understand how and when to treat patients in an individual manner to help reduce SDF depending on their specific circumstances.”
Read the full study, Controversy and Consensus on Indications for Sperm DNA Fragmentation Testing in Male Infertility: A Global Survey, Current Guidelines, and Expert Recommendations.
