As an infertility specialist, we often see couples, distraught after 2-4 years of marriage, who have been trying naturally following fertility calendar apps to plan their conception without much success, also without a proper evaluation. 

IUI is a saviour which is both less invasive, yet more effective and very economical to the couple. 

A well timed IUI with correct stimulation and laboratory techniques has helped various infertile couples to bring joy in their life. 

It’s the wise option to go ahead with an ovulation induction - IUI after a couple of years of planned intercourse not giving wanted results. 

It's also a very useful precursor prior to an attempted IVF cycle, and can even avoid the need for IVF in selected cases.

Intrauterine insemination (IUI): 

The goal of IUI is to increase the number of sperm that reach the fallopian tubes and subsequently increase the chance of fertilization.

IUI provides the sperm an advantage by giving it a head start but still requires a sperm to reach and fertilize the egg on its own. It is a less invasive and less expensive option compared to In Vitro Fertilization.

When is IUI used?

The most common reasons for IUI are low sperm count or decreased sperm mobility.

However, IUI may be selected as a fertility treatment for any of the following conditions as well:

  • Unexplained infertility
  • A hostile cervical condition, including cervical mucus problems
  • Cervical scar tissue from past procedures which may hinder the sperms’ ability to enter the uterus
  • Ejaculation dysfunction

IUI is not recommended for the following patients:

  • Women who have severe disease of the fallopian tubes
  • Women with a history of pelvic infectionsWomen with moderate to severe endometriosis

How does IUI work?

Before intrauterine insemination, ovulation-stimulating medications may be used, in which case careful monitoring will be necessary to determine when the eggs are mature. The IUI procedure will then be performed around the time of ovulation, typically about 24-36 hours after the surge in LH hormone that indicates ovulation will occur soon.

A semen sample will be washed by the lab to separate the semen from the seminal fluid. A catheter will then be used to insert the sperm directly into the uterus. This process maximizes the number of sperm cells that are placed in the uterus, thus increasing the possibility of conception.

The IUI procedure takes only a few minutes and involves minimal discomfort.

What are the risks of IUI?

The chance of becoming pregnant with multiples is increased if you take fertility medication when having IUI. There is also a small risk of infection after IUI.

How successful is IUI?

The success of IUI depends on several factors. If a couple has the IUI procedure performed each month, success rates may reach as high as 20% per cycle depending on variables such as female age, the reason for infertility, and whether fertility drugs were used, among other variables.

While IUI is a less invasive and less expensive option, pregnancy rates from IUI are lower than those from IVF. If you think you may be interested in IUI, talk with your doctor to discuss your options.