Sperm DNA Fragmentation Test - DFI Test (SCSA®)
Evaluates damage to the DNA inside sperm. Even with a normal sperm count, increased sperm DNA fragmentation (DFI) may lower the chances of pregnancy.
About SCSA® DFI Test
The SCSA® Test or Sperm Chromatin Structure Assay is an advanced sperm DFI test for male infertility. Unlike regular semen analysis that only looks at sperm count, movement, and shape, the SCSA® Test checks the DNA quality inside the sperm. This helps in understanding male infertility better and planning treatment. The test mainly measures two things: %DFI (DNA Fragmentation Index), which shows how much sperm DNA is damaged, and %HDS (High DNA Stainability), which shows sperm with abnormal DNA packaging that could affect fertilization.
FOR THE FIRST TIME IN INDIA
GOLD STANDARD in Sperm DNA Fragmentation Tests
What is the SCSA® Test?
The SCSA® Test or Sperm Chromatin Structure Assay, is an advanced test for male infertility. Unlike regular semen analysis that only looks at sperm count, movement and shape, the SCSA® Test checks the DNA quality inside the sperm.
Read MoreHow the SCSA® Test works?
The SCSA® Test is the most thorough among the sperm DNA fragmentation tests. It’s unique because it measures both the level of DNA fragmentation and the structure of chromatin (DNA + Protein). This test is done with a laser-based device
Read MoreWho is the SCSA® Test for?
Many couples trying to have a baby go through various fertility treatments, which can be time-consuming, emotionally draining and expensive, especially when the treatments don’t work. The SCSA® Test for sperm DNA fragmentation
Read MoreBenefits of the SCSA® Test
The SCSA® Test gives clear information about male reproductive health. It helps choose the most suitable treatment, reducing the emotional and financial burden of trying ineffective methods. It helps answer questions about previous failed fertility treatments.
Read MoreHighlights of SCSA Test
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Why SCSA Test?
SCSA Test (Sperm Chromatin Structure Assay) is a modern and reliable test that checks the health of sperm DNA, something regular semen tests often miss. If sperm DNA is damaged, it can lead to problems like failed pregnancy, IVF/ICSI failure or repeated miscarriages.
This type of damage is known as sperm DNA fragmentation, which is a key factor in many cases of male infertility. The sperm DNA fragmentation test, especially when done using the SCSA® method, provides accurate and clinically useful results. Andrology Center is the only approved lab in India that offers the original SCSA® test.
We provide fast, accurate reports and accept samples from across the country. Trusted by fertility experts, SCSA helps uncover hidden causes of male infertility and supports better treatment decisions, making it a reliable option for male infertility testing.
Who Should Have a Sperm DNA Fragmentation Screening?
Men with unexplained infertility
Couples with repeated IVF/ICSI failures
History of recurrent miscarriages
Men with varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum)
Men over the age of 35
Men exposed to smoking, alcohol, pollution or stress
Those with poor semen analysis results
Men with chronic illnesses or on long-term medication
After infections, high fever, or heat exposure (e.g., hot tubs)
Men working in high-radiation or chemical environments
SCSA® Test Resources
Sample Reports & Forms
The SCSA® or Sperm Chromatin Structure Assay report format is the same worldwide. The report provides the graphical representation on the…
Publications
The SCSA® Test is based on well-established research and methods. Since the inception of the SCSA® Test over 30 years ago, there have been numerous studies…
SCSA® Test FAQ’s
Make an Appointment Please fill in the form or call us on +91 944 379 3934 for more information on any of our services or to order the information for…
What is DNA Fragmentation?
DNA fragmentation means damage in the genetic material of sperm. Healthy sperm should carry intact and stable DNA. If the DNA is broken or damaged, it can affect fertilization, embryo growth and pregnancy outcomes.
In simple words, even if sperm looks normal, its DNA quality may not be healthy. This is why checking DNA damage is important in male fertility testing.
What is a DFI Test?
- Sperm DNA Fragmentation Test
- DNA Fragmentation Test
- Sperm DFI Test
Difference Between Semen Analysis and DFI Test
A semen analysis test checks:
- Sperm count
- Sperm movement (motility)
- Sperm shape
A sperm DNA fragmentation test checks:
- DNA quality inside the sperm
Even if semen analysis results are normal, high DNA fragmentation can still affect fertility and pregnancy outcomes.
DFI Test Normal Values
The DFI value helps understand sperm DNA quality.
Below 25% – Normal (Good DNA quality)
25% to 40% – Moderate damage
Above 40% – High DNA damage
Higher DFI levels may reduce the chances of natural pregnancy and increase the risk of IVF failure.
Why is DNA Fragmentation Test Important?
A sperm DNA fragmentation test helps detect problems that are not visible in a regular semen test.
This test is useful in cases such as:
- Repeated IVF or ICSI failure
- Recurrent miscarriage
- Unexplained infertility
- Poor embryo development
It helps doctors understand the root cause of male infertility and choose the right treatment plan.
Who Should Take This Test?
You may need a DFI test if:
- You are trying for pregnancy for more than 6 to 12 months
- You have had failed IVF or ICSI cycles
- There is a history of miscarriage
- Your semen analysis report is abnormal
- You are above 35 years of age
- You smoke or consume alcohol regularly
- You have high stress levels
How is the DFI Test Done?
The test is simple and painless.
- A semen sample is collected by ejaculation
- The sample is tested in a specialized laboratory
- Advanced methods are used to check DNA quality
- A report is generated with the DFI value
The sperm DNA fragmentation test usually takes less than 24 hours for results.
Causes of High DNA Fragmentation
High DNA fragmentation in sperm can happen due to:
- Smoking
- Alcohol consumption
- Stress
- Poor diet
- Infections
- Exposure to heat
- Age-related factors
- Environmental toxins
Identifying these causes helps improve treatment outcomes.
Benefits of Sperm DNA Fragmentation Test
A DNA fragmentation test offers several benefits:
- Detects hidden fertility problems
- Helps doctors plan better treatment
- Improves IVF and pregnancy success rates
- Provides deeper understanding of sperm health
- Helps in choosing the right fertility procedure
Can DNA Fragmentation Be Treated?
In many cases, DNA damage can be reduced with treatment and healthy lifestyle changes.
Doctors may recommend:
- Antioxidant supplements
- Healthy diet
- Regular exercise
- Avoiding smoking and alcohol
- Stress management
- Medical treatment when required
Early diagnosis through a DFI test can improve fertility outcomes.
How to Improve Sperm DNA Quality
You can improve sperm DNA quality by:
- Eating fruits, vegetables and nuts
- Maintaining a healthy body weight
- Avoiding excessive heat exposure
- Getting enough sleep
- Reducing stress
- Staying physically active
These changes may help reduce sperm DNA fragmentation over time.
Our Male Infertility Tests
Our Center is a beacon of comprehensive diagnostic services specialising in SCSA® test, which is the GOLD STANDARD in Sperm DNA Fragmentation testing.
Frequently Asked Questions
The DFI Test measures how many sperm have broken or damaged DNA. A higher DNA Fragmentation Index shows more DNA damage, which may reduce the chances of fertility.
The SCSA test looks beyond sperm count, movement or shape—it checks the quality and integrity of sperm DNA. This provides insights into genetic health that routine semen analysis cannot detect.
Even if sperm count, shape and movement are normal, high DNA damage can still cause fertility issues. A sperm DFI test helps identify hidden problems that may be missed in basic semen tests.
A high level of sperm DNA fragmentation is linked to lower chances of pregnancy, poor embryo development and an increased risk of miscarriage.
Yes. Knowing the DFI Test result helps doctors decide the best fertility treatment. For example, when DNA damage is high, advanced methods like ICSI may improve success rates.
Generally, a DFI below 25% is considered normal, 25–30% is moderate and above 40% is high, which can significantly affect fertility outcomes.
Not always. The sperm DNA fragmentation test is often recommended in cases of unexplained infertility, repeated IVF failures or recurrent miscarriages.
The SCSA test is highly reliable because it analyzes thousands of sperm at once, providing consistent and repeatable results on DNA damage.
Yes. Factors such as smoking, alcohol, poor diet, stress, environmental pollution, infections, heat exposure and increasing age can raise levels of sperm DNA fragmentation.
The DFI Test goes beyond routine semen analysis by checking sperm DNA at a molecular level. This makes it one of the most advanced Fertility Tests for Men, helping design more targeted treatment plans.
No, it is a simple and painless test.
Results are usually available within 24 hours if samples are provided at the testing lab.
A DFI value below 25% is generally considered normal.
Yes. High DNA damage can reduce pregnancy chances and affect embryo development.
Yes. Both tests provide different information and help in complete fertility evaluation.
