What is IUI?
IUI stands for Intrauterine Insemination, and it's a fertility treatment option that can help couples who are trying to conceive a baby.
During an IUI procedure, sperm is carefully inserted directly into the woman's uterus. This increases the chances of the sperm reaching the egg and fertilizing it. It's typically performed around the time of ovulation when the woman's ovaries release an egg.
Before the procedure, the man provides a semen sample. The sample goes through a process called "washing," where the healthy sperm is separated from the semen. This helps increase the concentration of active sperm.
On the day of the IUI, the woman lies down on an examination table like when having a Pap smear. A doctor or nurse inserts a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into the woman's cervix and into the uterus. The washed sperm is then carefully inserted through the catheter and released into the uterus.
The whole process is usually quick and relatively painless, like having a regular gynaecological exam. Afterward, the woman can rest for a short time before resuming her normal activities.
IUI is often recommended for couples who have certain fertility challenges, such as low sperm count or mobility issues, unexplained infertility, or cervical mucus problems. It can also be used in cases where a woman wants to conceive with a sperm donor.
Overall, IUI is a less invasive and more affordable fertility treatment compared to other assisted reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Why and when IUI is recommended?
IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) may be recommended for a variety of reasons and situations. Here are some common scenarios where IUI is often considered:
Unexplained infertility: When a couple is unable to conceive despite undergoing fertility tests that do not reveal any specific cause, IUI may be recommended as a first-line treatment.
Mild male factor infertility: If the man has a low sperm count, decreased sperm motility (movement), or abnormalities in sperm shape, IUI can be used to increase the chances of successful fertilization by placing a higher concentration of healthy sperm directly into the uterus.
Cervical issues: In some cases, the woman's cervix may produce mucus that is hostile to sperm or may have difficulty allowing sperm to pass through. IUI bypasses the cervix, placing the sperm directly into the uterus, thus increasing the chances of successful fertilization.
Donor sperm: IUI is commonly used for couples or individuals who require donor sperm to conceive. The donor sperm is processed and prepared for insemination using IUI.
Ejaculation difficulties: If the man has difficulty ejaculating or maintaining an erection during intercourse, IUI can be used to overcome this issue by collecting and preparing the sperm for insemination.
FAQs
At Aster Hospitals we provide the highest quality of care and a transformative experience for all your healthcare needs. With our network of multi-speciality hospitals, specialised doctors, and world-class technology, we bring global standards of medical care to our patients.
What is IUI?
IUI, or Intrauterine Insemination, is a fertility treatment procedure that involves placing washed and concentrated sperm directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation. This procedure aims to increase the chances of sperm reaching and fertilizing the egg.
How is IUI performed?
IUI involves the insertion of a thin, flexible catheter through the cervix into the uterus. Washed and concentrated sperm are then injected directly into the uterine cavity. The procedure is relatively quick, simple, and usually performed in a clinic or fertility center.
What is the success rate of IUI?
Success rates of IUI vary depending on factors such as the age of the woman, the underlying cause of infertility, and the specific circumstances of each case. On average, the success rate per IUI cycle ranges from 10% to 20%, with success rates increasing when combined with fertility medications.
Can IUI be performed with frozen sperm?
Yes, IUI can be performed using fresh or frozen sperm. Frozen sperm can be thawed and prepared for IUI. The quality of the frozen sperm and the success of the thawing process can affect the overall success rates.
When is IUI recommended?
IUI is commonly recommended for couples with various fertility issues, including mild male factor infertility, unexplained infertility, cervical factor infertility, or when there are difficulties with sexual intercourse. It may also be used in cases of ovulation disorders or in combination with fertility medications to enhance ovulation.
Does IUI hurt?
IUI is generally a minimally invasive procedure and is not typically painful. Some women may experience mild discomfort or cramping during or after the procedure, similar to menstrual cramps. However, any discomfort is usually brief and tolerable.
How many IUI cycles should be attempted before considering other options?
The number of IUI cycles recommended before considering other options can vary depending on individual circumstances, including age, cause of infertility, and previous treatment outcomes. Generally, it is common to attempt IUI for 3-6 cycles before discussing alternative treatments with a fertility specialist.
Are there any risks or side effects associated with IUI?
IUI is a relatively safe procedure, and serious risks are rare. However, some potential side effects may include mild cramping, spotting, or a small risk of infection. In some cases, fertility medications used in conjunction with IUI may have additional side effects that should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
