
DNA Fragmentation Index (DFI) Of Sperm – Key To Understanding Male Fertility
- How it Works
- Suitable For
- Process
- Cost
- Results
- Success Rate
- FAQs
While dealing with unexplained infertility concerns, fertility experts recommend a series of diagnostic tests to identify the potential causes of infertility or recurring failed fertilisation episodes. A DFI test is a diagnostic test that helps fertility experts to identify the potential cause of infertility or recurring failed fertilisation episodes. They study the sperm cells to analyse whether the DFA fragmentation index is within controlled range. Fertility experts at Oasis Fertility specialise in DFI testing to get precise insights into the causes of infertility in male partners. The state-of-the-art facilities and the experience of the fertility specialists combined help couples achieve their parenthood dreams safely.

What is DFI?
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What Is DFI Test and How Does It Work?

DFI stands for DNA Fragmentation Index test and helps identify the extent of DNA fragmentation in a male’s sperm cells. A widely-used test, doctors primarily recommend it for males dealing suffering with infertility issues. The test assesses male fertility to identify potential problems in sperm quality impacting the couple’s ability to conceive. The higher the value of DFI in sperm cells, the more fragmented the DNA is. This test also helps doctors rule out or ascertain the cause of male infertility problems. Fertility Experts at Oasis do the DFI testing with SCSA (Sperm Chromatin Structure Assay), which is more reliable than the more common SCD (Sperm Chromatin Dispersion) test.
What Happens If DNA Fragmentation Is High? & Why DFI Test Is Done?
One can refer to DNA fragmentation as a chemical change in the normal structure of the DNA. This condition can alter the genetic material in the DNA present in the form of single or double strands. If the DNA fragmentation is high, it can lead to several adverse effects related to male reproductive functions, such as reduced potential for fertilisation, abnormal embryonic development, and poor pregnancy outcomes. A DFI test is often recommended for couples dealing with male fertility issues, recurrent miscarriages, failed IVF cycles, poor or arrested embryonic development and conditions such as varicocele and abnormal semen findings.
DFI Test Procedure
Sample Collection
Sample Processing
Mixing and Staining
Analysis Using Flow Cytometry or Microscopy
Our medical team procures a semen sample after ejaculation within 48 hours (no abstinence needed) from the patient.
Step By Step DFI Testing Treatment Process
Here is a step-by-step process of an DFI Testing treatment
Pre-Care
Treatment
Post-Care
Initial Consultation
Oasis experts will analyse and determine if the DFI test is necessary based on their medical history and reproductive health concerns.
Lifestyle Recommendations
Experts also suggest changes in diet, hydration, and reducing oxidative stress factors, such as avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, which can impact sperm DNA integrity.
How Much Does DFI Test Cost in India?
The cost of a DFI test in India ranges between ₹9000 to ₹12000 depending on the lab location, facilities, and public opinion, which adds to the clinic’s credibility.
What are the causes of high DNA fragmentation?
The treatment offers the following benefits:
Cigarette Smoking
Cigarette smoking can lead to oxidative stress, which directly damages DNA in the cells. Cigarettes also contain toxic compounds that harm the DNA and the overall reproductive functioning of the body.
Infection
Infections are one of the many reasons that can contribute to genetic alterations, causing DNA fragmentation.
Testicular Overheating
Heat stress can also damage sperm DNA due to apoptosis. Testicular overheating breaks up DNA and adversely impacts chromatin density in the male body.
Varicocele
Varicocele is a condition that arises when a vein in the testes becomes enlarged. This is one of the causes of high DNA fragmentation in sperm. Males with the varicocele condition may have a reduced fertility rate.
Pollution
Long term exposure to air pollution, including various environmental oestrogens, for example, those found in pesticides and plastics, can cause hormonal imbalances in males, leading to DNA fragmentation.
Advanced Age
Male ageing is also one of the many factors that lead to male infertility due to high DNA fragmentation.
Obesity
Obesity in males is directly linked to an increased risk of high DNA fragmentation and slow sperm mobility.
Oxidative Stress
Too much reactive oxygen species (ROS) or a lack of antioxidants, a condition known as oxidative stress, causes high DNA fragmentation in males.
Poor Diet
A diet that lacks protective antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals can also cause fertility issues due to high DNA fragmentation.
Alcohol consumption
Alcohol consumption has a direct association with high DNA fragmentation. It negatively impacts male reproductive functioning.
Chemotherapy
Cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy, can adversely impact sperm quality and may be one of the reasons for high DNA fragmentation in males undergoing the treatment for cancers.
Diabetes
Owing to oxidative stress and the accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), men who have diabetes are at a greater risk of having high DNA fragmentation in their sperm.
Fever
An increase in body temperature may also be a cause of high DNA fragmentation.
Environmental Toxins
Exposure to environmental toxins, such as pollutants, pesticides, chemicals, radiations, elevate the risk of high DNA fragmentation in male sperm cells.
Pharmaceutical Medications
Chemotherapy, radiotherapy and long-term exposure to certain drugs can lead to high DNA fragmentation.
Effect Of Anti-Depressants And Anti-Epileptic Medications
These medications can cause oxidative stress, hormonal disturbances, or disrupt cellular processes, which impact sperm quality, increasing the likelihood of DNA damage.