Intrauterine insemination (IUI), also referred to as artificial insemination, is a relatively simple procedure that aids in conception by directing sperm to the right place at the right time.
In this process, a catheter is placed directly into the cervix, and a carefully prepared sperm sample is injected directly through the catheter into the uterus.
IUI increases a woman's chances of becoming pregnant by injecting a washed and prepped sperm sample directly into the uterus at a time when the woman is most fertile. Studies have shown that pregnancy is more likely to occur if ovulation timing is tracked closely, and if sperm is placed in higher numbers closer to the egg or eggs.
IUI may be performed with or without the use of fertility drugs by the patient. When such drugs are used, the therapy is referred to as controlled ovarian hyperstimulation, ovulation induction, or superovulation. IUI with the use of fertility drugs generally results in higher pregnancy chances.
IUI is often recommended for women or couples who:
- Have ovulation problems and are undergoing ovulation induction
- Have a male factor infertility diagnosis
- Have unexplained infertility
- Plan to use donor sperm
- Have been unsuccessful with infertility medication and timed intercourse
In order to determine the best treatment plan, a physician may recommend some additional testing before moving forward with artificial insemination.
Some common tests include:
- HSG
- Hormone Blood Level
- Semen Analysis
Interested in learning more about IUI? We invite you to schedule a consultation with one of our fertility specialists.
