Recurrent Miscarriage: The Male Factor Explained
Recurrent Miscarriage Is Not Always a Female Issue
When miscarriage happens repeatedly, attention often turns to the woman.
Hormones.
Uterine structure.
Chromosomal testing.
However, male factors are frequently overlooked.
Emerging evidence shows that sperm DNA integrity plays a critical role in early embryo development. If miscarriage has occurred two or more times, a deeper investigation is justified.
What Is Recurrent Miscarriage?
Recurrent miscarriage is generally defined as:
- Two or more consecutive pregnancy losses
In the UK, investigation pathways vary. However, male testing is often limited to basic semen analysis. This may not be enough.
Why Standard Semen Analysis Is Not Sufficient
A standard semen test evaluates:
- Count
- Motility
- Morphology
It does not assess genetic integrity.
A man may have normal semen parameters yet carry fragmented DNA. This fragmentation can impair embryo stability.
The Role of Sperm DNA Fragmentation
Sperm DNA fragmentation measures the percentage of sperm with damaged genetic material.
High fragmentation has been associated with:
- Reduced implantation
- Poor embryo development
- Increased miscarriage risk
This does not mean pregnancy is impossible. It means risk is higher.
Can Sperm Cause Miscarriage?
Yes.
During fertilisation, sperm contributes half the embryo’s genetic material.
If that DNA is damaged, the embryo may not develop normally.
In some cases, miscarriage occurs before the woman realises she was pregnant. Male DNA integrity matters from day one.
Who Should Consider Male Factor Testing?
You should consider advanced male testing if:
- You have experienced two or more miscarriages
- IVF or ICSI cycles have failed
- You are over 40
- There is unexplained infertility
- Lifestyle risk factors exist
Delaying investigation delays clarity.
MDC Advanced Male Fertility Profiles
At Marylebone Diagnostic Centre (MDC), we offer structured fertility diagnostics beyond standard semen testing.
1️⃣ DNA Fragmentation Test
This measures sperm DNA integrity. It identifies fragmentation percentage and risk level. Results are typically available within 24 – 42 hours.
2️⃣ Comprehensive Fertility Profile – £674
Includes:
- Comprehensive Semen Analysis
- DNA Fragmentation (24h)
- Sperm Photographs
- Male Infertility Hormone Panel
(FSH, LH, Testosterone, Free Testosterone, Prolactin, SHBG, Albumin, PSA)
Designed for couples trying 6–12 months or after pregnancy loss.
3️⃣ Advanced Care Profile – £932
Includes:
- Comprehensive Semen Analysis
- DNA Fragmentation
- Full Male Hormone Panel
- Mineral Hair Analysis
- Sperm Photographs
Designed for recurrent miscarriage or failed IVF cycles. These structured panels provide deeper insight.
What Causes High DNA Fragmentation?
Common contributors include:
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Poor sleep
- High stress
- Varicocele
- Environmental toxins
- Heat exposure
Oxidative stress is a major driver.
The good news?
DNA fragmentation can improve over 3 – 6 months with intervention.
How Long Does It Take to Improve DNA Fragmentation?
Sperm production cycles last around 70 – 90 days.
Lifestyle optimisation and medical treatment may show improvement after one cycle. Monitoring progress is important.
Is IVF the Only Solution?
Not necessarily.
If fragmentation is identified early, interventions may include:
- Antioxidant protocols
- Varicocele treatment
- Lifestyle optimisation
- Adjusted IVF techniques
Testing first prevents blind treatment.
Why Early Investigation Matters
Many couples undergo repeated IVF cycles without assessing male DNA integrity.
This increases:
- Emotional stress
- Financial cost
- Treatment fatigue
Advanced male testing can reduce uncertainty.
Why Choose Marylebone Diagnostic Centre?
We combine laboratory precision with discreet care.
Our Differentiators:
- Results within 24 – 42 hours
- On-site consultant review
- Private suites
- Discreet & confidential care
- CQC-accredited and aligned with Marylebone High Standard
- Optional teleconsultations
MDC uses QCMD quality assurance to ensure all results meet the Marylebone High Standard.
Visual Insight: Sperm DNA & Embryo Development
1. Can sperm DNA fragmentation cause miscarriage?
Yes. High DNA fragmentation is associated with increased miscarriage risk.2. Does normal semen analysis rule out male factor miscarriage?
No. Standard semen testing does not assess DNA integrity.3. Is DNA fragmentation reversible?
In many cases, yes. Improvement may occur within 3–6 months.4. Should men be tested after two miscarriages?
Advanced testing is advisable if miscarriage is recurrent or unexplained.5. How quickly are results available?
Most DNA fragmentation results are available within 24–42 hours.Take Control of Your Fertility Journey
Recurrent miscarriage is devastating. However, unanswered questions are worse. Male factor investigation is not blame. It is clarity. If you are facing repeated pregnancy loss, structured testing can provide direction.
Book Advanced Male Fertility Testing in London
📍 Marylebone Diagnostic Centre
73 Baker Street, London W1U 6RD
5-minute walk from Baker Street tube
📞 +44 7495 970109
🕒 Monday–Saturday, 8:00–16:00
Private, advanced fertility diagnostics with laboratory precision and compassionate care.
