DNA damage and recurrent miscarriage

DNA damage and recurrent miscarriage

Did you know that the cause of over 50% of miscarriages remains unidentified? This can be an exceptionally traumatic and distressing time for couples who have been trying to fall pregnant and to not be able to identify the reason behind the early pregnancy loss only adds to the frustration.

A recent study published in the journal of Clinical Chemistry could give many couples the answers they need and could also potentially give them a solution. The study has revealed that a man’s sperm quality may be the reason why some couples suffer from unexplained recurrent miscarriage.

Scientists found that the sperm of men, whose partners suffered from recurrent miscarriage had higher levels of DNA damage than normal, in fact they found that the amount of DNA damage was twice as high compared to men whose partners didn’t suffer from recurrent miscarriage.

DNA damage can be caused by environmental factors such as smoking, alcohol, pesticides and chemicals, drugs and chemotherapy. It can also be caused by genital tract inflammation, hormones and testicular hyperthermia, which is caused by increased scrotal temperatures (e.g. hot baths, saunas, laptop computers and prolonged periods of driving).

Simple lifestyle changes can have a considerable impact on the health of your sperm and depending on the underlying cause of your elevated DNA fragmentation, something as simple as diet, quitting smoking and cutting back on the alcohol can improve the quality of your sperm.

Fertility First has recognised the importance of sperm health when it comes to fertility and healthy pregnancies and has been testing for sperm DNA damage in patients since 2006.

Our clinic will perform routine testing on all our male patients, including potential donors before fertility treatment commences to give you the best chance of being able to achieve a healthy pregnancy.

For more information on DNA fragmentation testing or our donor sperm program, please contact our clinic on (02) 9586 3311 and speak to one of our friendly staff members.

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FAQ

How does Fertility First keep fertility treatment and IVF costs down?

As a Doctor-owned Medical Practice, our fertility and IVF treatment costs do not need to cover overheads and/or shareholder dividends, all of which have to come out of the income derived from patients’ treatment cycle fees at other fertility clinics in Sydney.

What is the NSW fertility treatment rebates?

From the 1st October 2022, the NSW Government announced a rebate of $2,000 in OOP expenses for all eligible patients. Fertility First is pleased to support the NSW Government’s fertility rebate at our Sydney fertility clinic.

What makes Fertility First different to other Sydney fertility clinics?

Fertility First is privately owned, which means we can place more focus on our patients. We offer a holistic approach to fertility and believe that it’s important to minimise the invasiveness of the fertility testing process and only carry out the necessary investigations, maximising your chance of a successful outcome. We offer extensive preliminary fertility testing, including Halosperm Assay.

We were one of the first Sydney fertility clinics to offer a donor sperm and donor egg program, thanks to our partnership with Central IVF.

How do I choose the best fertilty clinic for me?

Choosing the right fertility clinic in Sydney is a very important decision. You should consider factors like success rates, clinic location and appointment times, fertility treatment costs, repor with the Fertility Specialist and what treatment options are available.

Does Fertility First offer preliminary fertility testing?

Yes. We offer a range of fertility testing for both males and females. We aim to have fertility test results back within 2 to 3 weeks, which means, unless any assessment of the fallopian tubes is required, fertility treatment options can then be considered.

Does Fertility First offer treatment for same sex couples and singles?

Yes. Fertility First offers a range of fertility treatments that are suitable for same sex couples and singles, including our donor sperm program. See our fertility treatment page for a full guide.

Does Fertility First offer Medicare rebates?

Yes. In order to assist you with a Medicare rebate for your fertility treatment, you will need a current referral to Fertility First.

Note: GP referrals are valid for 12 months, and specialist referrals are valid for 3 months.

Does Fertility First offer IVF treatment?

Yes. IVF treatment is offered to suitable patients after preliminary testing.