Intrauterine Insemination

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), also known as artificial insemination, is a common assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedure used to help couples with infertility issues achieve pregnancy. It involves the placement of specially prepared sperm directly into the woman’s uterus, bypassing the cervix and bringing the sperm closer to the fallopian tubes where fertilization takes place.

The IUI process typically involves the following steps:

1. Ovarian Stimulation: Before the IUI procedure, the woman may be prescribed fertility medications to stimulate the ovaries and promote the development of one or more mature eggs. Ovarian stimulation helps increase the chances of successful fertilization.

2. Monitoring the Ovulation Cycle: During ovarian stimulation, the woman’s cycle is closely monitored through ultrasounds and hormone tests to track the growth and maturation of the eggs. This monitoring helps determine the optimal timing for the IUI procedure.

3. Semen Sample Collection and Processing: On the day of the IUI procedure, the male partner or a sperm donor provides a semen sample. The semen sample is processed in the laboratory to concentrate and separate the most motile and healthy sperm from the seminal fluid.

4. Insemination Procedure: The IUI procedure is typically performed in the doctor’s office or fertility clinic. The concentrated sperm sample is then loaded into a thin, flexible catheter, which is gently inserted through the cervix and into the uterus. The catheter is used to deposit the sperm directly into the uterine cavity.

5. Rest and Monitoring: After the IUI procedure, the woman may be advised to rest for a short period. In some cases, a second IUI may be performed 24 to 48 hours after the first to increase the chances of successful fertilization.

6. Pregnancy Test: Approximately two weeks after the IUI procedure, a pregnancy test is conducted to determine if the procedure was successful.