Badly packaged genetic material
The best method for establishing that genetic material in the sperm cell is badly packaged has been developed in the USA and is called the “Sperm DNA Integrity test” (SDI test).

The DFI (DNA Fragmentation index) is measured, which is the only parameter (measurable quality) that most effectively predicts the man’s ability to fertilise, and thereby his chances and probability of having children.

Experience shows that less than a third of the couples who complete the entire treatment programme cannot have children without special measures. Often the cause is hard to determine. In some cases, perhaps fertilised eggs may have been transferred after test-tube fertilisation or microinsemination, but the eggs fail to attach, or the pregnancy ended in a miscarriage. The SDI test method can help to explain the problem.

SDI is an examination of the sperm cell’s chromatin structure (the genetic DNA material), and its importance for the result of our treatments. We believe there is a link between badly packaged genetic material in the sperm cells and involuntary childlessness. This can be examined with an advanced, expensive and equipment-intensive examination method called flow cytometry.

Promising results
A group of researchers affiliated to Lund University and Malmö University Hospital have documented that the SDI test method provides important information that should be used when advising childless couples.

The results document that badly packaged genetic material in sperm cells in these cases is often the reason a couple cannot get pregnant by natural means.

The result of an SDI test early in the examination programme therefore provides important pointers regarding whether treatment should include insemination, test-tube fertilisation or microinsemination. In some cases, the genetic material may be so badly packaged in the man’s sperm cells that the best solution is to use donor sperm.

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