What is iui

What is Intrauterine Insemination?

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a medical fertility procedure designed to help couples achieve pregnancy. The treatment involves collecting and concentrating sperm, then placing it directly into the uterus near the time of ovulation to increase the likelihood of fertilization. IUI bridges the gap between natural conception and more invasive assisted reproductive techniques like IVF.

How IUI Works

The IUI procedure begins with sperm preparation, where a semen sample is washed and concentrated to remove seminal fluid and improve sperm quality. The concentrated sample is then inserted through the cervix into the uterus using a thin catheter. This direct placement bypasses potential barriers to natural conception, such as cervical mucus issues or low sperm motility. The entire procedure typically takes 3-5 minutes and causes minimal discomfort.

Who Benefits from IUI

IUI is recommended for various fertility situations including male factor infertility (low sperm count or poor motility), cervical factor infertility (cervical mucus problems), endometriosis, and unexplained infertility. It's also used for couples with religious or personal objections to IVF, and for single women or same-sex couples seeking pregnancy. Women with normal ovulatory function and patent fallopian tubes are ideal candidates.

IUI Success Rates and Timing

Success rates for IUI vary significantly based on age, overall health, and fertility diagnosis. Younger women typically see higher success rates (15-20% per cycle), while rates decline with age. Multiple cycles increase cumulative pregnancy rates; most doctors recommend 3-6 attempts before considering alternative treatments. Timing is critical, with insemination performed around ovulation to maximize fertilization chances.

IUI vs. Other Fertility Treatments

Unlike IVF, which retrieves eggs and fertilizes them outside the body, IUI keeps fertilization within the natural environment. IUI costs significantly less (typically $300-$1,000 per cycle versus $12,000-$15,000 for IVF) and involves no hormone injections or surgical procedures. However, IVF offers higher success rates and is more effective for severe male factor or tubal factor infertility.