IUI - Intrauterine Insemination
IUI is a fertility treatment that it is relatively non-invasive, since the doctor simply places healthy sperm as close to the fallopian tubes as possible, cutting down the time and distance sperm has to travel and fertilize the egg. It is also called artificial insemination.
It’s commonly used when the male partner is experiencing low sperm count or decreased sperm motility, but it can also help those suffering from unexplained infertility, endometriosis or cervical mucus issues and assist same-sex couples.
To increase the chances of success, a cycle of IUI should be carried out just after ovulation. Ovulation usually happens between 12 and 16 days after a woman has had their period, if she has a regular menstrual cycle. This can vary for an irregular menstrual cycle. Fertility medication can be use to trigger ovulation before IUI and with regular vaginal ultrasound scans we track the development of the eggs.
The sperm gets prepared for insemination through a process called “sperm washing” that pulls out a concentrated amount of healthy sperm
During the IUI procedure, the doctor slides a thin, flexible tube through your cervix into your uterus. They use a small syringe to insert the sperm through the tube directly into the uterus. The insemination procedure only takes about 5 minutes, and you don’t need anesthesia, feels similar to a pap test. IUI is usually not painful, but some women may experience mild cramping.
