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Sperm DNA fragmentation test in Seville

At Viamed Fertility Institute, we know that few things generate as much frustration as receiving a diagnosis of “unexplained infertility”. Many couples often come to our consultation in Seville after months of unsuccessful attempts, despite having a semen analysis with apparently normal values. However, sperm count and motility are only the tip of the iceberg.

The sperm DNA fragmentation test is the diagnostic tool that allows us to look beneath what cannot be seen with the naked eye: the integrity of the genetic material.

What is DNA fragmentation and how does it affect fertility?

To understand this concept simply, imagine that the sperm’s DNA is an instruction book that it must deliver to the egg in order to “build” a baby. If that book arrives with torn, crossed-out or disordered pages, the embryo will not be able to read the instructions correctly. These breaks in the chain of genetic material are what we call fragmentation.

Even if the sperm is able to reach the egg and fertilise it, if its DNA is damaged, embryo development may stop prematurely. For this reason, this test is essential for assessing the man’s real fertility quality beyond the appearance or quantity of sperm cells.

Single-strand vs. double-strand fragmentation

Not all “breaks” in DNA have the same consequences. Thanks to the high-complexity hospital laboratory at our centre in Seville, we can differentiate between two types of fragmentation:

Single-strand fragmentation

This reduces the egg’s fertilisation potential and the spontaneous pregnancy rate, and is mainly associated with difficulties achieving pregnancy naturally or through low-complexity techniques. However, it may improve with antioxidant therapy over 2 to 3 months, and the oocyte has the ability to repair this damage.

Double-strand fragmentation

This increases the miscarriage rate, the rate of embryo development arrest and the rate of implantation failure in the uterus. As both DNA helices are damaged, this type of damage does not improve with antioxidants and the oocyte is usually unable to repair it.

To overcome these obstacles, it is possible to select sperm with lower DNA fragmentation using sperm selection techniques such as Zymot and MACS. In addition, depending on the case, genetic diagnostic techniques such as PGT may be recommended to rule out embryos with genetic abnormalities caused by this sperm DNA fragmentation.

Why is a conventional semen analysis not always enough?

A basic semen analysis is a fundamental test, but it has limitations. It analyses the sperm’s “logistics”: how many there are, how they move and what shape they have. It is like checking that an envelope is properly sealed and has the correct address.

However, the sperm DNA fragmentation test analyses the contents of the envelope: the genetic message. A man may have an excellent sperm count and enviable motility, but if the DNA they carry is fragmented, the chances of success decrease dramatically. That is why, in Seville, we recommend this test to obtain a 360-degree view of the man’s reproductive capacity.

The safety of carrying out the study at Viamed Hospital Santa Ángela de la Cruz

Performing this test in a high-complexity hospital environment offers a level of precision that not all centres can guarantee. At Viamed Fertility Institute, we do not use manual or subjective readings that depend on the technician’s eye. We use flow cytometry, an automated technology that analyses thousands of sperm cells in seconds using laser technology. This technique allows us to provide:

Objective results

We eliminate human error in interpretation.

Speed

As we have our own laboratory within the hospital, waiting times are reduced.

Reliability

We work under the rigorous quality standards of Viamed Salud, ensuring that every data point is accurate when planning your treatment.

Who is this test recommended for?

Our team of professionals usually recommends the fragmentation study in the following cases:

Unexplained infertility

When basic tests do not reveal why pregnancy is not occurring.

Recurrent miscarriage

Especially to detect double-strand fragmentation.

Implantation failure

After IVF cycles in which the embryos appeared to be of good quality but did not implant.

Men over 45

Age directly influences the accumulation of damage in sperm DNA.

External factors

Men who smoke, have obesity or have been exposed to high temperatures or environmental toxins.

Varicocele

A common medical cause of fragmentation that should be assessed.

Solutions after diagnosis: advanced sperm selection

Receiving a result showing high fragmentation does not mean that the dream of becoming parents is over. Quite the opposite: it gives us the key to choosing the right technique.

If we detect high levels of genetic damage, at Viamed Fertility Institute we apply advanced selection techniques such as Zymot or MACS. These systems allow us to filter and select only those sperm cells with intact DNA for fertilisation, exponentially increasing the chances of an ongoing and healthy pregnancy.

FAQs: frequently asked questions about the fragmentation test in Seville

Yes. In many cases, after a period of treatment with specific antioxidants and lifestyle changes, such as stopping smoking, DNA quality may improve. Our medical team will assess whether the test needs to be repeated after a few months.

Not at all. The process is identical to a semen analysis; only a semen sample obtained through masturbation is required, after an abstinence period of between 3 and 5 days.

Thanks to our hospital infrastructure in Seville, we usually have the detailed report available within a few days, allowing us to adjust your treatment protocol without unnecessary delays.

Ensure the quality of your Life Project

Do not leave your dream to chance. A precise diagnosis is the first step towards success. Request your appointment for the sperm DNA fragmentation test today and let our team of experts help you find the shortest path to your baby.

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We are here to support you.
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954 032 022
We are here to support you.
  • Call us
954 032 022

Dr. Pamela Valdivieso Mejía

gynaecologist and specialist in assisted reproduction

  • Specialist in Gynaecology and Obstetrics (MIR programme) at the Virgen de Valme University Hospital.
  • Master's Degree in Human Reproduction from the Universidad Rey Juan Carlos.
  • 11 años de experiencia en reproducción asistida.

Dr. Silvia Valladares Jiménez

Specialist in Endocrinology and Nutrition

  • Specialist in Endocrinology and Nutrition with extensive clinical experience in leading hospitals such as Vall d’Hebron University Hospital and Viamed Santa Ángela de la Cruz Hospital, where she is currently head of department.
  • Her practice focuses on comprehensive patient care, with a particular specialism in reproductive endocrinology, diabetes and endocrine disorders during pregnancy.
  • She has experience in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, thyroid disorders, acromegaly and gynaecomastia, as well as in the management of complex hormonal and metabolic disorders, particularly in female endocrinology.
  • She is actively involved in clinical research, participating in European projects such as EUROCONDOR and PILCHARDUS, as well as contributing to scientific publications and medical conferences. She combines her clinical work with teaching and continuing clinical education.

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

  • Bachelor's degree in Biotechnology from Pablo de Olavide University
  • Master's degree in Biology and Assisted Human Reproduction Technology from the European University of Madrid.
  • Completion of specialization courses in the assisted reproduction laboratory and workshops on embryo evaluation and selection.
  • Attendance at fertility conferences and seminars on reproductive medicine.

Dr. Carlos Javier Vega Reina

GYNAECOLOGIST

  • Graduated in Medicine from the University of Cádiz.
  • Specialised in Obstetrics and Gynaecology via MIR at the University Hospital of Puerto Real, Cádiz.
  • Master's Degree in Assisted Human Reproduction from the Complutense University of Madrid.

Dr. María Miró

IMMUNOLOGIST

  • Degree in Medicine, University of Cádiz
  • Specialist in Immunology, Reina Sofía University Hospital.
  • Extensive experience in Primary Care Medicine and Hospital Emergency Rooms
  • Reproductive Immunology. Experience in various reproduction centres

Dr. María Eugenia Molina

HEMATOLOGIST

  • Graduate in General Medicine and Surgery. University of Seville.
  • MIR training as a Specialist in Family and Community Medicine. Virgen Macarena University Hospital. Seville.
  • MIR training as a Specialist in Haematology and Haemotherapy. Nuestra Señora de Valme University Hospital. Seville.
  • Specialist in Haematology and Haemotherapy with practice in different health centres in Seville. Consultations on coagulation, myeloproliferative syndromes, red blood cell disorders, chronic and acute lymphoproliferative syndromes;
  • Specialised in disorders associated with recurrent pregnancy loss

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

  • Degree in Medicine and Surgery from Universidad CEU San Pablo de Madrid.
  • Doctor of Medicine from the University of Seville, graduating with highest honours (cum laude)
  • Specialist in Gynecology and Obstetrics via MIR at the Virgen de Valme University Hospital.
  • Master in Human Reproduction, Universidad Complutense de Madrid.
  • Member of the Standing Committee of the Young Interest Group of the Spanish Fertility Society.
  • Clinical Stay. Division of Ultrasound in Obstetrics. Lis Maternity Hospital (Tel Aviv, Israel)