Intrauterine insemination (IUI)

INTRAUTERINE INSEMINATION (IUI)

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is a fertility treatment procedure that involves placing sperm directly into a woman’s uterus to facilitate fertilization. This method is often used in cases of unexplained infertility, male factor infertility, or when there are issues with cervical mucus.

Here is an overview of the IUI process:

1. Ovulation Monitoring:
   • Before starting IUI, the woman’s menstrual cycle is monitored closely to determine the timing of ovulation. This may involve tracking hormonal levels, using ovulation predictor kits, or undergoing ultrasound examinations.
2. Sperm Preparation:
   • The sperm sample, usually provided by the male partner or a sperm donor, undergoes a special preparation process in the laboratory. This involves separating healthy sperm from the seminal fluid.
   • If you’re a couple planning on using fresh sperm, the male will produce a sample the morning of the egg retrieval. If you are using frozen or donor sperm, our scientists will have it ready in the lab.
     The sperm is graded using 4 different levels of quality. It’s washed in a special mixture to slow it down so our scientists can spot the best ones under the microscope. A perfect, healthy sperm is not too fat or thin, with a tail that’s not too long or short. The best sperm are selected, and they’re ready and waiting in the lab to be introduced to the eggs.
3. Insemination:
   • The prepared sperm is then introduced directly into the woman’s uterus through the cervix using a thin catheter. This process is typically painless and does not require anesthesia.
   • Just like a routine pelvic exam, a woman lies on an exam table. The sperm sample is injected into the uterus through a thin, long, flexible catheter. The entire process is virtually painless and takes seconds to complete. Getting up shortly after the procedure will not impact chances of pregnancy. On some occasions, insemination will be recommended two days in a row, but in most cases, a single well-timed insemination is all that is needed in each cycle.
4. Timing:
   • The timing of IUI is crucial, and the procedure is usually performed around the time of ovulation to increase the chances of the sperm reaching the egg.
5. Post-Insemination Care:
   • After the procedure, the woman may be advised to rest for a short period. Some fertility clinics may recommend progesterone supplements to support the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle.
6. Pregnancy test
   If you are lucky enough, the implanted embryo will grow into a baby. If you get more than one embryo, the chance of your pregnancy will be higher.
   Two weeks after Insemination Procedure, you can take a pregnancy test.