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• IVF • Oocyte Donation • ICSI • IUI • PGD • Assisted Hatching • Embryo Cryopreservation • Ovulation Induction • Premature Ovarian Failure • Endometriosis • Male Infertility

Intrauterine insemination (IUI)

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a common treatment for infertility. It can be used in cases where the male has a low sperm count or when abnormalities of ejaculation (retrograde ejaculation, impotence) exist. IUI is also utilized when the cause of infertility is unknown, when cervical disorders are present or with use of donor sperm. Ovulation inducing drugs are usually used as well.

In this technique, semen is collected into a sterile cup by masturbation and than processed for IUI. The processing of the semen sample involves washing the sample with "specialized media" to remove prostaglandins and other substances from the semen that can cause cramping. The processed sperm is than inserted directly into the uterus with a tiny catheter, bypassing the cervix. Since IUI relies on the natural ability of sperm to fertilize an egg within the reproductive tract, the sperm function of the male must be reasonable and the fallopian tube(s) must be healthy and functional. An IUI takes approximately 10-15 minutes to complete.

Appropriate timing of the intrauterine insemination procedure is important in optimizing outcomes. Usually the procedure is performed the day after an LH surge detected by an ovulation prediction kit or 36 hours after an injection of hCG. Ultrasounds also may be utilized to track the development of the follicle and impending release of the egg. Ultrasounds to time IUI’s are usually used when the patients are taking oral or injectable fertility medications.