🧬 DFI – DNA Fragmentation Index
“Beyond the Count — Understanding Sperm DNA Health”
What is DFI?
DNA Fragmentation Index (DFI) is a sperm-function test that assesses the amount of fragmentation or damage in sperm DNA. It provides information that is different from routine semen analysis, which mainly evaluates sperm count, motility and morphology.
Why Does Sperm DNA Integrity Matter?
Sperm DNA carries the genetic information needed for successful fertilisation and embryo development. Increased DNA fragmentation has been associated with some fertility problems and adverse reproductive outcomes, although DFI is not a stand-alone diagnosis of infertility.
When May DFI Testing Be Considered?
DFI is not recommended as a routine first-line test for every infertile couple. A fertility specialist may consider it in selected situations, such as:
*Unexplained infertility
*Recurrent pregnancy loss, particularly when infertility is also present
*Selected cases of previous unsuccessful fertility treatment
*When additional assessment of male reproductive factors is clinically appropriate
Current ASRM guidance specifically notes that sperm DNA fragmentation testing may be considered in otherwise unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss with infertility, while routine testing in the initial infertility evaluation is not recommended.
🔬 What Does the Test Tell Us?
DFI testing can provide an additional layer of information about sperm quality when routine semen parameters do not tell the whole story. Results should be interpreted together with the man's history, examination, semen analysis and the couple's overall fertility assessment.
👨⚕️ Expert Fertility Care at ASCAS
Dr. Aishwarya Parthasarathy
Consultant Fertility Specialist & Gynaecologist
MD (OBG), DNB (OBG), FNB (RM), MRCOG (UK)
Dr. Aishwarya provides individualized fertility evaluation and treatment planning, helping couples understand investigations such as semen analysis and, when clinically appropriate, advanced sperm-function testing.
🏥 Our Centres
ASCAS Fertility & Women’s Centre
14 Arunachalam Road, Next to VB World,
Saligramam (Vadapalani), Chennai – 600093
Accumed Speciality Clinic & Scans
24 Chowdhury Nagar Main Road,
Majestic Colony, Chennai – 600087
📞 Contact
+91 93452 93609 | +91 93425 21779
Doctor-led • Structured System • Personal Touch
