12/04/2025
You may hear the term “DNA fragmentation” during a fertility workup. In simple terms, it means tiny damage in the genetic material inside s***m. Some men have more fragmentation than others — and it can be related to age, lifestyle, heat exposure, or sometimes no clear cause at all.
So here’s the part most people don’t hear:
➡ Not everyone needs this test.
➡ A high number doesn’t always predict treatment failure.
➡ Supplements aren’t a proven fix.
The best first step is still a semen analysis and a conversation with a provider about your unique situation. If DNA fragmentation testing is appropriate, we’ll guide you through what the results actually mean — and how they may (or may not) affect your care plan.
Want to learn whether DFI testing makes sense for you or your partner?
📍 Start with an appointment — crh.ucsf.edu/appointments