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?
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
Can a normal semen analysis show an abnormal FISH result?
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”.
Is this test painful for men?
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.
How long do the results take at the hospital?
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.