Lowest normal reference value where 5% of population getting pregnancy is –
Count: 15 million
Motility (Forward progressive): 32%
Morphology: 4%
DNA Fragmentation: 70 % (N) atleast
DNA Fragmentation index is a quantitative and qualitative estimation of semen. This index indicates beyond count & motility. It directly or indirectly indicates the power of sperm or the ability of sperm to fertilize an egg.
If DNA fragmentation is
<15% can able to conceive naturally
15-25% antioxidant + IUI
>30% IVF & ICSI
Intra-Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is a treatment that has many resemblances with conventional IVF. The only difference between the two processes is the method of achieving fertilization. In this process, a single sperm is injected directly into the egg using a fine glass needle. The main objective of ICSI is to ensure that the spermatozoa fertilize the egg membrane. The woman is stimulated with medications and then an egg retrieval procedure is performed so that several eggs can be obtained to attempt an ICSI procedure.
ICSI is recommended in cases of severe male infertility, previous fertilization failures with IVF or situations in which there are a limited number of oocytes available.
Steps to follow in an ICSI treatment
A very fine and delicate needle is carefully inserted through the zona (the shell of the egg) and into the centre (cytoplasm) of the egg.
The sperm is injected into the cytoplasm and the needle is removed.
The eggs are checked the next morning for evidence of normal fertilization.
Intricacies involved in an ICSI treatment
A plethora of scientific researches has claimed the babies conceived through ICSI may have an increased risk of chromosomal abnormality.
The possibility that a boy conceived as a result of ICSI may inherit his father’s infertility.
An increased risk of miscarriage because the technique uses sperm that would not otherwise have been able to fertilize an egg.
A low sperm count caused by genetic problems could be passed on to a male child.
Precautions to take after an ICSI treatment
Heavy exercise like aerobics, jogging, and weightlifting are prohibited at least for some days.
Smoking or consumption of alcohol should be restricted.
Please consult your doctor before taking any medication.