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SPERM OXIDATIVE STRESS TESTING

Male fertility issues cause 50% of conception challenges. Oxidative stress, linked to poor sperm and DNA damage, may explain 25–40% of unexplained cases.

What is oxidative stress?

This occurs when there are high levels of what are known as Reactive Oxygen Species (“ROS”) or “Free Radicals” circulating in the body. These are chemicals that are produced naturally in the body as a biproduct of a cell’s metabolism and under normal circumstances are mopped up by the body’s antioxidants.

However, if they are allowed to reach high levels – sometimes due to poor diet, infection or inhalation of high levels of toxins (e.g. cigarette smoke) – they can cause damage to the DNA structure. It is generally accepted that a healthy lifestyle would enhance the antioxidant level in the system which would in turn promote healthy sperm development. 

Oxidative stress and male fertility

High levels of oxidative stress have been linked to poor sperm function, abnormal semen analysis results, and failed IVF outcomes. There is evidence that high levels of oxidative stress can cause changes in the sperm cell membranes, affecting their morphology and motility, as well as causing damage to their DNA. This DNA damage could result in DNA errors within an embryo, in turn causing lower pregnancy rates and a higher risk of miscarriage. 

We can assess the balance of free radicals and antioxidants in the sperm with an ‘SOS’ test. This test can be done at the same time as a semen analysis or at any point in your treatment. Once we have the results, we’ll discuss your best next steps with you, which could be further tests or possible treatments. 

Testing for oxidative stress

Though a classic semen analysis may show the effects of oxidative stress (such as reduced quality or motility of sperm), it would not be able to show the reason behind it. Our SOS test quickly determines if a patient has high levels of oxidative stress by assessing the balance of free radicals and antioxidants in a semen sample. This test can be done at the same time as a normal semen analysis, or at any other time during fertility treatment at Care Fertility.

A great advantage of this test is that there is no need for sperm to be frozen and transported to our specialist laboratory, as with Sperm DNA damage screening. Since Oxidative Stress can cause sperm DNA damage, our SOS test is a quick indicator of whether further, more complex testing is necessary. 

Who should be tested for oxidative stress?

Male factors play a significant role in fertility challenges. Below are key categories of men who may benefit from further evaluation and support in addressing fertility concerns.

Partners of women with a history of two or more pregnancy losses Recurrent pregnancy loss can be linked to male factors, including sperm DNA fragmentation or oxidative stress. Men whose partners have experienced multiple losses should consider a comprehensive evaluation to uncover and address potential underlying issues.
Men over the age of 40 Male fertility declines with age, with a higher risk of reduced sperm quality, DNA damage, and chromosomal abnormalities. Men over 40 should explore additional testing and interventions to optimize fertility and reduce potential risks.
Males with suboptimal semen analysis results Men with abnormal semen parameters, such as low sperm motility, poor morphology, or low sperm count, are more likely to encounter fertility challenges. Further diagnostic testing may help identify causes and guide appropriate treatments.
Men with a high BMI Lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet, and obesity (BMI over 30) negatively impact sperm quality and overall fertility. Adopting healthier habits can significantly improve reproductive outcomes.
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