IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)
IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)
Intrauterine Insemination is a technique in which sturdy sperm are sifted out from flaccid ones and later the washed sperm are placed into women’s uterus during the time of ovulation.
IUI provides the sperm with an advantage by giving it a head start but still requires a sperm to reach and fertilize the egg on its own. It is a less invasive and less expensive option compared to in vitro fertilization.
When is IUI used?
The most common reasons for IUI are low sperm count or decreased sperm mobility.
Unexplained infertility
A hostile cervical condition, including cervical mucus problems
Cervical scar tissue from past procedures which may hinder the sperms’ ability to enter the uterus
Ejaculation dysfunction
Women who have severe disease of the fallopian tubes
Women with a history of pelvic infections
Women with moderate to severe endometriosis
What are the risks of IUI?
The chance of becoming pregnant with multiples is increased if you take fertility medication when having IUI. There is also a small risk of infection after IUI.
How successful is IUI?
The success of IUI depends on several factors. If a couple has the IUI procedure performed each month, success rates may reach as high as 20% per cycle depending on variables such as female age, the reason for infertility, and whether fertility drugs were used, among other variables.