SPERM DNA FRAGMENTATION: A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Objectives: This study examines the impact of sperm DNA fragmentation on male fertility, pregnancy outcomes, the success rates of assisted reproductive technologies (ART), and the available treatments. Methods: This study is a narrative review focusing on infertility, "sperm DNA fragmentation" and "sperm count" using papers published in PUBMED, Scopus, and Google Scholar from 2019 to 2022 in Spanish, Portuguese, and English. Results: A total of 29 studies were selected, demonstrating that reactive oxygen species play a central role in sperm DNA damage, impairing fertilization. Sperm DNA fragmentation is further influenced by factors such as oxidative stress, leukospermia, advanced paternal age, and environmental pollutants. Conclusions: While ART can help overcome some of the challenges posed by DNA fragmentation, it remains a significant barrier to fertility.