Intrauterine Insemination

Intrauterine insemination – IUI – is an artificial insemination procedure that places the sperm of a woman’s male partner, or a donor, directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation.

Is intrauterine insemination right for me?

Intrauterine insemination may be a good option for couples experiencing certain fertility issues, including:

• Ovulation problems – women who don’t ovulate regularly or at all
• Cervical factors – scarring that blocks the sperm from entering the uterus or thick mucus that interferes with sperm movement
• Sperm or ejaculation issues – IUI may be beneficial in man with low sperm count or sperm motility issues. Men who have difficulty developing an erection or who suffer from retrograde ejaculation (sperm released backward into the bladder) or other ejaculation issues may need IUI
• Unexplained infertility – when a cause for infertility cannot be found, IUI may be recommended before moving to IVF
• Third party reproduction – couples using a sperm donor

Who should NOT consider intrauterine insemination?

Reproductive endocrinologists do not usually recommend intrauterine insemination in the following cases:

• When there is blockage of the fallopian tubes
• In women with moderate to severe endometriosis
• When sperm count or quality is poor

Intrauterine insemination process

Once a semen sample is obtained, the sperm is washed to remove the seminal fluid. The most active sperm are then separated from low quality sperm. Sperm may be frozen for later use.

The female partner is closely monitored for signs of approaching ovulation. In some cases, the ovaries are stimulated with fertility drugs to improve success.  Insemination is then performed as close to ovulation as possible, since fertilization must occur within 12 to 24 hours after ovulation.

During the intrauterine insemination procedure, the fertility specialist inserts a catheter through the cervix and into the uterus. The prepared sperm is then delivered through the catheter. The procedure is typically painless, so no anesthesia is necessary. Normal activity can be resumed within minutes after intrauterine insemination.