Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), also known as Artificial Insemination
⦁ Indeed a helpful option for couples if the wife's fallopian tubes are patent (no blockage) and the husband's sperm count is adequate.
WHAT IS THE PROCEDURE :
⦁ In this, sperm is directly placed inside a woman’s uterus to promote fertilization. It is a way of increasing the number of healthy sperms that reaches fallopian tubes.
⦁ Though IUI makes it possible for sperm to reach fallopian tubes, it still has to reach and fertilize the egg. The goal of IUI is to achieve pregnancy, which is possible if the sperm fertilizes the egg and egg implants properly on the uterus.
⦁ Although the success rate per treatment is lower with IUI than IVF-ICSI, Dr.Lad’Navjeevan Hospital & IVF Center has a high rate of success in all of our assisted reproduction treatments as compared to the average success rates. Other treatment options available at Dr.Lad’Navjeevan Hospital & IVF Center include IVF-ICSI, IMSI, Natural Cycle IVF, Screening for hereditary diseases through PGD, Male Infertility and much more.
When is IUI Useful?
⦁ Male Infertility: IUI is commonly used when the male partner has a borderline l ow sperm count, poor motility, problems in developing an erection or being able to ejaculate.
⦁ Female Infertility: In women who do not ovulate regularly, IUI may be advised in conjunction with ovulation induction. It is indicated as an initial line of treatment for women with Endometriosis.
⦁ IUI is helpful for women with cervical scarring due to infection or surgery. It is also an option for couples if the wife’s Fallopian tubes are patent (no blockage) and the husband’s sperm count is adequate
Should I Be Considering An IUI? Do I Have Any Other Options?
Each couple is unique and we offer a treatment protocol tailored to your medical and financial needs therefore it is important to discuss your complete medical history with one of Dr.Lad’Navjeevan Hospital & IVF Centre’s Consultant before making a decision. We are aware that experiencing difficulty in conceiving can be stressful,
emotionally and financially, and you can trust us to do our part to help you and your spouse fulfil your Dreams of Parenthood. Book an appointment today to discuss your history with a physician and begin your journey.!
How is sperm collected for IUI?
The sperm needed for IUI can be collected in several ways. Most commonly, the man masturbates into a glass or plastic cup that is provided at the clinic. Sperm can also be collected during sex in a special condom.
If the man has retrograde ejaculation, the sperm can be retrieved in the laboratory from his urine sample. An abstinence period of 3-4 days is advisable prior to IUI.
How is IUI done?
IUI can be done in a natural cycle or in conjunction with controlled ovarian hyper-stimulation. Follicular growth (basically your eggs) is monitored by ultra-sound at regular intervals and the trigger injection is given once the follicles have reached the required size. IUI is performed near the time of ovulation. The semen sample is “washed” in the laboratory, to concentrate the sperm and remove the seminal fluid (seminal fluid can cause severe cramping in the woman). This process usually takes 90 minutes to complete. The IUI procedure is relatively simple and only takes a few minutes. The woman lies on an IUI bed and the clinician gently inserts a speculum into her vagina to visualise cervix. An IUI catheter (soft narrow silicone tube) is inserted through the cervix into the uterus and the washed semen sample is slowly injected into the upper uterine cavity.
What are the advantages of IUI?
IUI is a simple, painless and inexpensive technique. It is a safe and relatively easy treatment procedure with minimal risks and monitoring.
Fewer medications needed
| • | Less expensive than IVF |
| • | Less Invasive |
Risks associated with IUI procedure
You may experience Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome when there is an over-response to fertility medication. Consult your doctor if you experience these symptoms;
| • | Nausea and vomiting |
| • | Shortness of breath |
| • | Severe abdominal pain or pain in the pelvic area |
| • | Dizziness or lightheadedness |
| • | Diarrhea |
How does IUI increase the chance of Pregnancy?
The semen preparation done for IUI separates the healthiest sperms in the ejaculate. The washed sperm is placed into the upper uterine cavity adjacent to the fallopian tubes. This bypasses any potential cervical factor problems and removes the sperm that are less likely to fertilize the egg.
What is the success rate for IUI?
The success of IUI depends on several factors. Success rates can be as high as 20% per cycle depending on the age of the female partner, the infertility diagnosis and the use of fertility medications.
