Fertilechip – DNA fragmentation and sperm selection

Our genetic material is structured in the form of a double strand of DNA within each sperm. In some situations, this chain can be broken and your DNA is said to be fragmented.

Depending on the cause, DNA fragmentation can be single-stranded or double-stranded. There are studies that associate double-chain fragmentation with couples who have repeated miscarriages, unachievable pregnancy, or poor embryonic quality.

Indications

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Couples who have suffered repeated miscarriages.

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Couples with several failed cycles of in-vitro Fertilisation.

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Slow embryonic development or low embryo quality.

Here at Clinica Fertia we are committed to this method of sperm selection, also in cases of couples who start a cycle with donated eggs.

How does the Fertilechip device work?

This device has been developed by Harvard University Medical School and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, in order to select sperm with lower rates of double-stranded DNA fragmentation.

For this technique, the semen is manipulated without the need to be previously centrifuged, thus reducing oxidative damage in the sample, compared to the usual techniques of selection. This sperm selection technique is based on microfluidic technology.

Although this technique allows us a better selection, its use is not recommended in frozen semen samples or in cases of low sperm count.

Frequently asked questions about reproduction treatments

If you would like more information about our treatments, we are always available to help and answer any of your questions.

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How long do I have to wait to start treatment?

If the evaluation is successful, treatment can be started immediately. Treatment can be scheduled for the month that best suits the couple. In the case of egg recipients, the waiting time is usually one or two months.

How many attempts can I make?

In the case of artificial insemination, here at the clinic we recommend a maximum of four attempts, since 90% of pregnancies occur in the first four cycles.
Regarding In-vitro fertilisation or microinjection, our clinic never makes more than four attempts using these techniques.
In the case of egg donation, it is more difficult to establish a limit, this will normally be determined by psychological and also economic factors.

Can you use these techniques when you have already entered menopause?

Yes. Nowadays, it is possible to become a mother after entering menopause, either physiological due to ovarian failure, or after treatment of neoplastic diseases.
In these cases, the reception of eggs from a donor must be used.

What are the biggest concerns of egg or sperm recipient couples?

Anonymity is what worries most couples and, at Clínica Fertia, this is absolutely always guaranteed. Although a patient accepts to undergo the treatment, they do want the upmost discretion.
Another factor that concerns a couple is the health of the donors and the physical resemblance to them.
In our centre, both in the case of sperm donors and egg donors, our goal is to seek that the physical resemblance is as similar as possible to the parents.

Are these treatments expensive?

For a couple with fertility problems to achieve a pregnancy it can cost between 800 and 6,000 euros, if an assisted reproduction technique is used. Although the price not only depends on the technique used, but also on the frequency of its application.
Clínica Fertia is a pioneer in maintaining an honest and transparent policy. Since 2002 we have published the information of the cost of our treatments on our website.

Check out our prices list

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Your first fertility consultation is free.

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