New sperm quality test

A new method for testing sperm quality is already leading to claims that it could increase IVF success rates.

Scientists at the University of Edinburgh have worked out a way of evaluating DNA damage in sperm by capturing the sperm in laser light and inspecting the DNA by looking at vibration patterns. The process is known as Raman Spectroscopy. It would allow them to choose the healthiest sperm when carrying out IVF or ICSI.

When couples conceive naturally, only the strongest sperm survive the journey through the woman's body to reach the egg, and this new method allows scientists to weed out the healthiest sperm in a similar way.

It all sounds great, but apparently it will take at least five and possibly ten years before this will be available to patients as research is still ongoing.

You can read more here .