Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

IUI stands for "Intrauterine Insemination". It's a fertility treatment procedure in which sperm is directly placed into a woman's uterus during ovulation to facilitate fertilization. This procedure can be used for couples with various fertility issues, such as low sperm count, cervical mucus problems, or unexplained infertility.

Who is IUI suitable for?

• Mild Male Infertility: IUI may be recommended for couples with mild male factor infertility, such as low sperm count, decreased sperm motility, or abnormal sperm morphology.
• Unexplained Infertility: When the cause of infertility is unknown after thorough testing, IUI may be attempted as a less invasive treatment option.
• Cervical Factor Infertility: If a woman's cervix produces hostile mucus that inhibits sperm movement or if there's a cervical structural issue, IUI can bypass this barrier.
• Ovulatory Disorders: Women with irregular ovulation or who are undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation may benefit from IUI to increase the chances of pregnancy.
• Donor Sperm: IUI is commonly used for couples who require donor sperm to conceive.

What does IUI involve?

• Ovarian Stimulation (Optional): Depending on the specific circumstances, the woman may undergo ovarian stimulation with fertility medications to encourage the development of multiple eggs.
• Monitoring: During the menstrual cycle, the woman's hormone levels and follicle development may be monitored through blood tests and ultrasounds.
• Timing of Insemination: When the woman is nearing ovulation, a semen sample (either partner's or donor's) is collected and processed in the laboratory to concentrate healthy sperm.
• Insemination Procedure: Using a thin, flexible catheter, the concentrated sperm is inserted directly into the woman's uterus through the cervix. This procedure is typically quick and minimally invasive.
• Post-Insemination Care: After the procedure, the woman may be advised to rest for a short period before resuming normal activities.

What are the symptoms of IUI?

• Physical Discomfort: Some women may experience mild cramping or discomfort during or after the insemination procedure, similar to menstrual cramps.
• Spotting: Light vaginal spotting or bleeding may occur following the procedure, which is usually minimal and temporary.
• Ovulation Symptoms: Women undergoing ovarian stimulation may experience symptoms associated with ovulation, such as bloating, breast tenderness, and mood swings.
• Emotional Stress: Like any fertility treatment, the emotional stress of undergoing IUI and waiting for the outcome can be significant for some couples.