At a glance
- Mild male-factor infertility
- Cervical factor or ovulation problems
- Unexplained infertility
- Donor sperm treatment
What is IUI?
Intra Uterine Insemination (IUI) is a treatment in which low dose medication is given to allow one or two follicles to develop or done on natural cycle. This is followed by insertion of washed sperms directly into the uterus. IUI increases the probability of fertilization by increasing the number of sperms that reach the fallopian tubes.
When is IUI Used?
IUI is recommended for couples trying to conceive for at least one year with no success. IUI is recommended in the following cases
- Unexplained infertility
- Mild decreased sperm motility
- Mild endometriosis
- Mild low sperm count
- Requirement of donor sperm
- Ejaculation and erection dysfunction
How Does IUI work?
The IUI procedure may be performed even in a natural cycle however, doctors may give medications to increase follicle production to achieve success. The aim is to allow one to two follicles to grow whose size is monitored using an ultrasound.
Once the size of follicle reaches 18mm or more, the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is administered to stimulate the release of egg from the follicle.
A semen sample is washed in the lab to separate the semen from the seminal fluid. A catheter is used to inject the processed sperm directly into the uterus. The IUI procedure is not painful. Two weeks after the IUI your doctor will advise to take a pregnancy test to check for results.
How Successful is IUI?
The average success rate for IUI ranges from 10-20% in one cycle. For Women over 35 years of age the success rate declines.
How the treatment works
- 1
Follicle monitoring
Scans track the growth of one or two follicles, in a natural cycle or with mild medication.
- 2
Trigger & timing
An injection may be given to time ovulation precisely.
- 3
Insemination
The prepared sample is placed in the uterus with a soft catheter — quick and usually painless.
- 4
Pregnancy test
A test about two weeks later.
Frequently asked questions
How many IUI cycles should we try?
Many doctors suggest up to three or four cycles before discussing IVF, depending on age and diagnosis.
What is the difference between IUI and IVF?
In IUI, prepared sperm are placed inside the uterus and fertilisation happens naturally inside the body. In IVF, eggs are collected and fertilised with sperm in the laboratory, and the resulting embryo is transferred to the uterus. Your doctor will suggest which is suitable based on tests of both partners.
The information on this website is for general education and does not replace a consultation. Treatment plans and outcomes differ from person to person; no treatment can guarantee pregnancy or a live birth.
