Scientists say they have found the cause of most cases of unexplained infertility – and the man is to blame.
The researchers at Queen’s University, Belfast, UK, say the cause is DNA damage in the male sperm.
The finding has come from the use of a new test developed at the university to measure damaged DNA.
The researchers say that up to a third of infertile couples have never been able to get a medical explanation – but 80% of these may suffer from DNA damage to the sperm.
Researcher Professor Sheena Lewis said: "Now that we have found the cause of infertility for these couples suitable treatments can be tailored for them which will direct them straight to the best treatment and increase their chances of having a baby.”
She added: "This test can predict the success of infertility treatments and fast-track couples to the treatment most likely to succeed, leading to reduced waiting times and improved chances of success.
“With one million couples worldwide requiring fertility treatment, these new research findings will give many fresh hope of having a family.”
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