Sperm FISH in Seville: high-precision chromosomal analysis

Sperm FISH is the diagnostic test that allows us to detect “invisible” chromosomal abnormalities in semen that may be the cause of previous treatment failures. It is always indicated after an individual assessment of each case by the specialist.

Located in Viamed Hospital Santa Ángela de la Cruz, our team of professionals uses this advanced cytogenetic technique to ensure that every step of your Life Project is based on the most complete medical information possible.

What is sperm FISH and what does it analyse?

FISH stands for Fluorescence In Situ Hybridisation. In simple terms, it is a technique that uses fluorescent “colour markers” to count the number of chromosomes inside each sperm cell.

Normally, each sperm cell carries one copy of each chromosome. If we detect that a high percentage of the sample has extra or missing copies, known as aneuploidies, the risk of the embryo not being viable increases dramatically. At our centre in Seville, we analyse the 9 chromosomes that most frequently present alterations: 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 21, 22, X and Y.

Sperm FISH provides key information about possible chromosomal alterations that may affect fertility, helping to guide the diagnosis and select the most appropriate reproductive strategy for each case.

Specialisation in cytogenetics

We have laboratories equipped with high-resolution microscopy for precise reading of fluorescent signals.

Hospital rigour

With the support of Viamed Salud, each sample is handled under hospital-level biological safety and traceability protocols.

Comprehensive vision

Our medical team interprets the results in order to adapt your treatment in a personalised way.

How can sperm chromosomal abnormalities affect your Life Project?

If a sperm cell with an incorrect chromosomal load fertilises the egg, the consequences can be painful:

Fertilisation failure

The egg and sperm are unable to create an embryo.

Implantation failure

Embryos are generated that may appear healthy in the laboratory, but are rejected by the uterus because they are not genetically viable.

Recurrent miscarriage

Pregnancy begins, but stops in the first few weeks due to chromosomal errors in the sperm.

Risk of disorders

There is an increased likelihood of the newborn having a chromosomal alteration.

When is the FISH study recommended?

Depending on each patient’s characteristics, sperm FISH may be recommended in the following situations:

Couples with recurrent miscarriage with no apparent female cause.

Patients with implantation failure after several In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) cycles.

Men with severe male factor infertility, such as major alterations in sperm concentration or motility.

Couples with a history of a previous pregnancy with chromosomal abnormalities.

From diagnosis to solution: the path towards PGT

The most important aspect of FISH is not only detecting the problem, but offering a solution. If the result shows a high percentage of abnormal sperm cells, at Viamed Fertility Institute we have the tools to help overcome this obstacle.

After an individual assessment of each case, the medical team may recommend Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT). By genetically analysing embryos before transfer, we can select only those that are chromosomally healthy, thereby neutralising the risk detected in the sperm and maximising your chances of success.

FAQs: questions about sperm FISH in Seville

Yes. A man may have many sperm cells and they may move very well, resulting in a normal semen analysis, but their internal chromosomal load may still be incorrect. FISH is a test of “internal quality”, not “external appearance”.

Not at all. As with a conventional semen analysis, only a semen sample obtained through masturbation is required, after an abstinence period of between 3 and 5 days.

Due to the technical complexity of fluorescent hybridisation, the report is usually available in around 10 to 15 days. At Hospital Santa Ángela de la Cruz, we streamline the process so that you can make decisions about your treatment as soon as possible.

We are here to support you.
We are here to support you.

Dr. Pamela Valdivieso Mejía

gynaecologist and specialist in assisted reproduction

Dr. Silvia Valladares Jiménez

Specialist in Endocrinology and Nutrition

Dr. José Vilar

GYNAECOLOGIST

Education and Qualifications

  • Medical Degree from the University of Cádiz.
  • Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hospital Universitario Puerta del Mar, Cádiz.

Professional Experience

  • Gynaecologist at IVI Málaga (2013–2018).
  • Gynaecologist at Grupo Internacional UR (2020–2025).
  • Gynaecologist at IFV (2026–present).
  • Consultant in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the Andalusian Health Service (2019–present).

Qualifications and Awards

  • PhD in Medicine from the University of Cádiz.

Scientific Activity

  • Co-author of several scientific publications in international journals and presentations delivered at national and international conferences.
  • Co-author of several chapters in specialised books on Gynaecology and Assisted Reproduction.

Ángeles Bretón

CLINICAL EMBRYOLOGIST

Dr. Carlos Javier Vega Reina

GYNAECOLOGIST

Dr. María Miró

IMMUNOLOGIST

Dr. María Eugenia Molina

HEMATOLOGIST

Elena Mantrana Bermejo

Gynecologist. Specialist in Reproductive Medicine

  • Degree in Medicine and Surgery from the University of Seville.
  • Specialty in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Hospital Universitario de Valme, Seville.
  • Master’s Degree in Human Reproduction from the Universidad Rey Juan Carlos.
  • Specialist Physician of the Andalusian Health Service in the South Health Management Area (AGSS) of Seville.
  • Coordinator of the Assisted Human Reproduction Unit of the Hospital Universitario de Valme, Seville.
  • Member of the Human Reproduction Advisory Committee of AGSS of Seville.
  • Member of the working group for the update of the Guide for Assisted Human Reproduction of the Ministry of Health of the Andalusian Regional Government.
  • Tutor of Specialist Doctors in Training of the Teaching Area of the University Hospital of Valme.
  • Clinical Tutor Medical Students University of Seville

Alberto Armijo

Gynecologist. Reproductive Medicine Specialist