Sequential Sperm Population Enrichment for ICSI: DGC-MACS versus MACS-DGC- A Hypothesis-Generating Perspective

In some fertility treatments, a specialist helps fertilization by injecting a single sperm directly into an egg. Before this step, laboratories use different methods to prepare sperm samples and increase the chances of selecting a suitable sperm. Two methods can be used together. One separates sperm from unwanted cells and other material, while the other helps remove sperm showing certain changes on their surface. However, it is not yet clear whether the order in which these methods are performed affects the chances of having a baby. In this paper, we suggest that using the first method before the second may offer practical advantages when enough sperm are available. We also propose studying additional signs of sperm health and developing a new way to describe changes in sperm samples during preparation. These ideas have not yet been proven to improve fertility treatment outcomes. Further studies are needed to compare the two methods in different orders and determine whether either approach increases the chances of having a baby.