Male fertility testing involves various diagnostic procedures and tests to evaluate the reproductive health and potential fertility of a man. These tests aim to identify any factors that may contribute to male infertility.
Semen analysis is the most common fertility test used to evaluate male fertility. Semen analysis involves examining various parameters such as sperm count, motility, and morphology. However, semen analysis alone falls short in providing insights into the genetic integrity of the sperm, but combining it with Halosperm assay will provide a comprehensive evaluation regarding the potential contribution of sperm to a couple’s fertility challenges.
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Halosperm assay
The Halosperm assay is a type of fertility test that is used to evaluate the fertility potential of sperm by determining the percentage of sperm that exhibit fragmented and damaged DNA. The Halosperm assay test provides crucial insights into the quality of DNA present within the sperm’s chromosomes, aiding in clinical diagnosis and the management of male infertility. Fragmented DNA refers to DNA that is “broken” in one or multiple regions. The presence of “broken” sections can have adverse effects on developing embryos, potentially leading to genetic defects in the child.
As demonstrated by published research, the likelihood of achieving a natural pregnancy or after fertility treatment decreases when there is a higher percentage of sperm with DNA fragmentation. And if pregnancy occurs, there would be higher risk of miscarriage.
There are only a few fertility clinics that offer the option of Halosperm assay to patients, it is vital to check its availability when you are looking for a fertility clinic.
HBA sperm testing
Sperm undergo a maturation process to acquire the ability to fertilise the egg upon entering the female reproductive tract. Sperm mature at varying rates, if it matures too early then it will not reach the egg and dies unable to fertilise the egg. If it matures too late, it becomes incapable of fertilisation, even if they come into contact with the egg.
When the mature sperm reaches the egg, it binds to the egg’s protective shell also known as the egg’s zona pellucida, and through a combination of chemical reactions and physical force, the sperm can penetrate and fertilise the egg. Surrounding the egg are protective granuloma cells that produce a protein called Hyaluronan. The mature and functional sperm cells express receptors for this protein and bind to it during the fertilisation process.
The Hyaluronan Binding Assay (HBA test) is a type of fertility test that enables andrology scientists to quantify the percentage of sperm capable of binding to this protein, providing insight into the maturity level of a man’s sperm. This test is useful in determining the appropriate treatment for a patient. When the binding scores are low, it is generally recommended to use ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) in combination with a viscous medium known as SpermSlow, which facilitates the embryologist in the selection of sperm with normal functionality.
If you’re looking to start your fertility journey, or have been trying to conceive naturally for some time, it might be a good option to see your health care provider for fertility testing.
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