Intrauterine insemination, also known as IUI, is a procedure that is paired with ovulation induction to trigger ovulation in the female. Upon just the right timing, a fertility specialist inserts washed and prepared sperm (collected from the male partner, or a donor) directly into the female’s uterus via a small flexible catheter. This process allows the sperm to bypass the cervix, making more sperm available to reach and fertilize the egg(s), and increasing the chance of conception.
IUI is a first-line treatment for some cases of unexplained infertility or mild male infertility. The degree of male infertility is determined using a semen analysis fertility test. More serious cases of male infertility may require IVF with ICSI or even use of donor sperm.
The IUI Process
Timed ovulation
To maximize the chance of a successful treatment cycle, the IUI is timed appropriately from the time of a trigger shot to force ovulation, or from the time of a positive ovulation predictor kit at home.Sample preparation
On the day of your IUI, your male partner’s sample will be dropped off to be washed and prepared for insemination. A frozen donor sperm sample can also be used and thawed for the IUI.Insemination
The actual insemination takes place in your preferred office location.Pregnancy test
Two weeks after your procedure, your pregnancy blood test will be drawn and resulted to determine next steps.If needed, Sincera Reproductive Medicine can also help with accessing donor sperm for your treatment cycle.