Pregnancy is usually a time of happiness and hope, but it also brings in the unexpected. While there is much talk placed on the health of the expectant mother, the quality sperm coming from the father could dramatically change the outcome of pregnancy. The latest study suggests the risks of sperm DNA damage, even increasing the risks of complications preeclampsia and birth prematurity.

In a groundbreaking research study conducted by scientists from Lund University in Sweden, scientists discovered that DNA damage in sperm increases the risk almost up to double that of preeclampsia, this is a dangerous condition that may arise during pregnancies characterized by high blood pressure. In addition, DNA anomalies also increase the risk of premature births, and this further entails increased related adverse health outcomes for infants born through such conditions.

The next step would be to find out which group of men respond best to methods to prevent and treat sperm DNA damage, and to test these methods to prevent pregnancy complications," said Dr. Amelie Stenqvist, a lecturer at Lund University. According to this study, a significant message is put forward that paternal health assumes an important role in a successful pregnancy.

It focused its research on men, specifically whose sperm contained high levels of DNA fragmentation. For instance, some 20% to 30% of babies born via in vitro fertilization have fathers whose sperm contains damaged DNA. The DNA fragmentation index, an indicator to assess the percentage of DNA damage in sperm, indicated that when the percentage of sperm with a DFI above 30% was observed, they had almost no chance of resulting in natural conception. Even a DFI greater than 20% showed that the chances of getting pregnant are highly risky as the risk factor for pregnancy complications like preeclampsia is much high.

Uncommon Complications during Pregnancy

The most alarming complication during pregnancy is preeclampsia. It affects approximately 5% to 8% of pregnancies worldwide, which can cause fatal conditions for both the mother and the baby. The new findings now point out that sperm DNA damage may contribute to this condition, especially if it is due to assisted reproductive techniques such as IVF pregnancies. The research found that a DFI above 20% doubled the risk of preeclampsia from a mere 5% to almost 11% per.

Apart from causing preeclampsia, DNA fragmentation in sperm is also known to increase the risk for prematurity. Most premature babies experience respiratory, neurological, and developmental complications. Therefore, some degree of early intervention might be important for prospective parents.

Some of the rarer, though serious complications include placental abruption, which is the separation of the placenta from the uterine wall and intrauterine growth restriction, a condition by which the baby does not grow normally in the womb. These conditions though rare are potentially catastrophic both to the mother and the child. Results from this study may help in establishing the contribution of the father in such pregnancies.

Further study into sperm DNA damage is of urgent interest with regard to its consequences for pregnancy outcomes. According to Professor Aleksander Giwercman of Lund University in the field of Reproductive Medicine, "the analysis of DFI should be introduced as routine test in all fertility clinics.". "It could give answers to couples who are having difficulties with infertility, but our latest result also shows that DFI analysis can be a method to identify high-risk pregnancies, explained Giwercman.

For many, DNA fragmentation in sperm is often treatable. Common causes are oxidative stress, age, smoking, being obese, and infections. Addressing these elements will likely reduce DNA damage in sperm for men, raising the chances for a healthy pregnancy and baby.

Overall, the study importance should take into consideration paternal as well as maternal health towards reaching for a healthy pregnancy. Though DNA fragmentation in the sperm is supposed to increase the risk factors for complications in pregnancies, the advances into novel treatment approaches and tests are likely to alleviate complications in many families. Thus the findings of this study offer optimism and pave a pathway to more holistic fertility treatments in the future.

In today’s hyper-connected world, access to health information has never been easier. Yet, ironically, the ability to understand and apply that information remains one of the biggest barriers to better health outcomes.

This is where health literacy comes in, not just the ability to read a pamphlet or follow a doctor’s prescription, but the broader skill of accessing, comprehending, and using health information to make informed decisions for oneself, one’s family, and one’s community.

While definitions vary, there is consensus that health literacy is multi-dimensional. It involves confidence, critical thinking, and practical skills, knowing when to seek care, how to evaluate health claims, and how to follow treatment correctly. In essence, health literacy is the foundation of preventive care and treatment adherence, and its absence can be devastating.

The Challenge of Low Health Literacy in India

The scale of the problem in India is stark: nearly 90 percent of Indians have low health literacy. This gap directly affects patient outcomes, from delayed diagnoses and poor compliance with treatment to preventable complications and higher healthcare costs.

Several factors explain this reality:

• Low literacy levels: A significant proportion of the population cannot read or interpret basic medical instructions, leading to mismanagement of conditions.

• Poverty and affordability: For millions living on less than INR 100 a day, awareness alone is not enough when healthy choices remain unaffordable.

• Gender and cultural barriers: Women often have lower access to information and autonomy in health decisions, particularly around reproductive and maternal health.

• Distrust in healthcare systems: Overcrowded facilities and inconsistent care erode confidence, driving many to informal or unverified sources.

Low health literacy doesn’t just harm individuals; it amplifies inequities and strains the entire healthcare ecosystem. It also worsens misinformation, as people turn to social media or word-of-mouth for guidance, often encountering unverified or unsafe advice.

Planning for pregnancy is an important step that requires proper health preparation for both partners. Preconception health screening helps couples understand fertility status and detect any underlying health issues. Doctors recommend that couples undergo certain medical tests before trying to conceive so that any health concerns can be identified and managed early. Here are some of the tests before pregnancy that can help couples identify potential risks early and improve the chances of a healthy pregnancy. Couples should opt for these tests without fail to ensure a smooth pregnancy.

While many people focus on health during pregnancy, preparing for pregnancy is also equally important. By opting for some crucial tests, couples can improve their chances of a smooth pregnancy and reduce the risk of complications.

Dr. Payal Narang, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospital, Lullanagar, in an interview with Health and Me, listed some of the important health check-ups for men and women that must be considered before pregnancy.

Important tests for women

1. Infection screening: The expert can advise screening for infections such as rubella, hepatitis B, and HIV that can affect pregnancy or the baby’s health. Hormone tests help assess ovulation and reproductive health. These tests may help detect conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or hormonal imbalance. Tests such as anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) may be advised to evaluate ovarian reserve and fertility potential.
2. Pelvic ultrasound: Will be carried out to examine the uterus and ovaries to identify conditions such as fibroids, ovarian cysts, or structural abnormalities. It can also help in detecting abnormalities, endometriosis, or polycystic ovaries that may impact fertility.
3. Complete blood count: Complete blood count (CBC) will help to detect anemia, infections, and your body’s overall readiness. Low hemoglobin is common in Indian women and can lead to fatigue. Treating anemia before pregnancy is important, as low haemoglobin levels can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy and delivery.
4. Rubella IgG Antibody Test: Did you know? Rubella infection during pregnancy can raise the chances of serious birth defects. This test shows if you’re already immune or if you need a vaccine before trying to conceive and prevents any problems.
5. Blood Group and Rh Factor: Should be done to ensure safe pregnancy. If a woman is Rh-negative and her partner is Rh-positive, the expert will examine further to prevent immune-related issues during pregnancy. So, discuss this with the doctor.
6. Vitamin D and B12 screening: Vitamin D and B12 screening shouldn’t be missed: Vitamin D and B12 deficiencies are common in women and can impact fertility, egg health, and fetal development. The expert will suggest supplements to deal with these deficiencies and stay healthy.
7. Blood sugar and HbA1c testing: Screening for diabetes or prediabetes is important before pregnancy, as uncontrolled blood sugar levels can increase the risk of miscarriage, congenital abnormalities, and pregnancy complications.

Health check-ups for men

1. Semen analysis is necessary for men: Helps to know the sperm count, movement, and quality. It helps determine whether sperm health is adequate for successful conception. Men don’t hesitate and get the semen analysis done on a priority basis.
2. Hormone tests: Hormone levels such as testosterone may be checked if there are concerns about fertility or low sperm production. Tests for follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and prolactin may also be recommended in certain cases.
3. Genetic Testing: Can be done to pick up any genetic factors or chromosomal abnormalities that may affect sperm quality. Carrier screening can help detect inherited genetic conditions such as thalassemia or cystic fibrosis that may be passed on to the baby.

Couples should follow the advice given by the doctor and take these tests for a smooth pregnancy.

Blockbuster drug Ozempic, known for treating type 2 diabetes and obesity, has a surprising side effect. A new study published in The Lancet Psychiatry showed that the GLP-1 receptor agonists might prevent worsening of depression and anxiety.

People with diabetes or obesity are generally more likely than the general population to suffer from depression and anxiety. It is because both diabetes and obesity increase the risk of mental ill-health, and vice versa.

The findings showed that people with diabetes using semaglutide had a substantial decrease in hospitalizations and sick leave due to mental illness, including less worsening of depression, anxiety, and self-harm.

“Our findings suggest that GLP-1 drugs, particularly semaglutide, might contribute to better mental health in people with diabetes and obesity, but since this was an observational study, controlled clinical trials are needed to confirm the results,” said Jari Tiihonen, specialist physician and professor at the Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet.

What Did The Study Find?

The research, led by an international team from Griffith University, the Karolinska Institutet, and the University of Eastern Finland, tracked Swedish national registers between 2009 and 2022.

It included 95,490 people, of which GLP-1 receptor agonists were used by 22,480 individuals during the follow-up period.

Semaglutide was associated with a decreased risk of worsening

• depression
• anxiety
• substance use disorder
• self-harm.

Patients using semaglutide experienced a 42 percent lower risk of hospitalization for mental health issues during periods of use, compared to periods when they were not taking the drug.

More specifically, the risk reduction was 44 per cent for sickness absence or hospital care due to depression, 38 per cent for anxiety disorders, and 47 per cent for substance use.

Also read: Can Weight Loss Jabs Surge Divorce Rates? What Experts Are Saying

The team also found some benefits with Liraglutide. The drug was associated with an 18 per cent lower risk of sickness absence and hospital care due to psychiatric reasons.

How Does Semaglutide Work?

Semaglutide works as a GLP-1 receptor agonist that mimics the GLP-1 hormone to regulate appetite and blood sugar. It slows gastric emptying and makes you feel fuller longer. It also signals the brain to reduce hunger and cravings, and triggers the pancreas to release insulin when blood sugar is high.

They work by increasing insulin release in a glucose-dependent manner, decreasing the liver's production of glucagon, and slowing down the emptying of the stomach, which helps lower blood sugar levels after a meal. They also act on the brain to suppress appetite and increase feelings of fullness, leading to reduced calorie intake.

Read More: Can Semaglutide Help Fight Cancer In The Brain?

In people with type 2 diabetes, notes Harvard Health, the body's cells are resistant to the effects of insulin and the body does not produce enough insulin, or both. This is when GLP-1 agonists stimulate the pancreas to release insulin and suppress the release of another hormone called glucagon.

These drugs also act in the brain to reduce hunger and act on the stomach to delay emptying, so you feel full for a longer time. These effects can lead to weight loss, which can be an important part of managing diabetes.