Sperm DNA Fragmentation (SDF) Testing
When couples are trying to conceive, the focus often falls primarily on female investigations. However, male factor fertility contributes to around 40–50% of fertility challenges.
Understanding sperm health is a key step. Sperm DNA Fragmentation (SDF) testing provides a deeper assessment of sperm quality and may be particularly helpful if:
Understanding sperm health is a key step. Sperm DNA Fragmentation (SDF) testing provides a deeper assessment of sperm quality and may be particularly helpful if:
- You have been trying to conceive for some time
- You have experienced recurrent miscarriage
- You have unexplained fertility difficulties
- You are preparing for IVF or ICSI
- Your standard semen analysis was normal, but pregnancy has not occurred
What is Sperm DNA Fragmentation?
A standard semen analysis assesses:
Sperm DNA Fragmentation testing measures the level of DNA damage inside sperm cells. Even when count, movement and shape appear normal, elevated DNA fragmentation may affect:
SDF testing provides another layer of information to help guide investigation and treatment decisions.
- Sperm count
- Motility (movement)
- Morphology (shape)
Sperm DNA Fragmentation testing measures the level of DNA damage inside sperm cells. Even when count, movement and shape appear normal, elevated DNA fragmentation may affect:
- Natural conception
- Embryo development
- Miscarriage risk
- IVF and ICSI outcomes
SDF testing provides another layer of information to help guide investigation and treatment decisions.
What Does a High SDF Result Mean?
A higher fragmentation result does not mean pregnancy is impossible. It indicates there may be increased DNA damage within the sperm, which can be influenced by:
Results should always be interpreted alongside your medical history and other fertility investigations. While the test does not identify a specific cause, it can help determine whether further medical assessment or lifestyle optimisation may be beneficial.
- Oxidative stress
- Varicocele
- Smoking
- Illness or fever
- Environmental exposures
- Lifestyle factors
Results should always be interpreted alongside your medical history and other fertility investigations. While the test does not identify a specific cause, it can help determine whether further medical assessment or lifestyle optimisation may be beneficial.
When is SDF Testing Helpful?
SDF testing may be particularly helpful in the following situations:
Results are typically available within two weeks of the sample reaching the laboratory.
- Unexplained infertility
- Recurrent pregnancy loss
- Previous IVF or ICSI cycles that have not been successful
- Known or suspected sperm quality concerns
- Men wanting a clearer understanding of their sperm health
Results are typically available within two weeks of the sample reaching the laboratory.
How to Book
Sperm DNA Fragmentation Testing appointments are available with Jill Wright in Edinburgh and Glasgow. Please email her directly in the first instance with any enquiries, or to book your SDF test - [email protected]. She will provide all the information you need, including the tests available, logistics and costs. Clinics are located at:
Edinburgh:
Fertility & Pregnancy Ltd
Forth Street Treatment Room
16 Forth Street
Edinburgh
EH1 3LH
Alternate Mondays, 9:30am-12:30pm
Glasgow:
Examen Hub
10 Newton Place
Glasgow
G3 7PR
First Sunday of each month, 11:00am-2:00pm
Edinburgh:
Fertility & Pregnancy Ltd
Forth Street Treatment Room
16 Forth Street
Edinburgh
EH1 3LH
Alternate Mondays, 9:30am-12:30pm
Glasgow:
Examen Hub
10 Newton Place
Glasgow
G3 7PR
First Sunday of each month, 11:00am-2:00pm
Other Local Support
Many men choose to complete a semen analysis or oxidative stress (ROS) test before progressing to SDF testing. Where appropriate, these investigations can provide complementary information and help guide the next steps in assessment and treatment.
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