IUI is one of the simpler fertility treatment options
You may have heard Intrauterine Insemination is also known as “Artificial Insemination.”
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is a simple procedure that involves placing the prepared sperm (washed sperm from a partner or sperm donor) into the uterus around the time you ovulate.
We use Intrauterine Insemination to provide the sperm with a head start and increase the number of sperm that reach the fallopian tubes, where it’s closer to the egg, and in turn increase the chance of fertilisation and a successful pregnancy.
Generally, the sperm works its way through the cervical canal and into the uterus. However, in the case of a low sperm count, motility, or if there is a thick cervical mucus, it can be difficult for sperm to make the full journey. This is when InSEM steps in to help.
At InSEM, we work with you and your goals to grow your family. Whether you decide to have the insemination procedure done at our clinic or at the comfort and privacy of your own home, our expert team is ready to provide all the support you need and guide you along the way.
What’s involved in IUI?
The IUI procedure involves the use of sperm that is either fresh (from a partner) or frozen (from the partner or a donor) which is specially prepared in the InSEM laboratory to maximise the quality and concentration of the sperm cells.
Preparing the sperm involves separating the semen from the sperm and choosing the best sperm in terms of shape and ability to swim.
The insemination procedure itself is very simple, short and painless.
For the best results, we recommend that the IUI is performed around the time of ovulation, as fertility is highest during this point in the menstrual cycle. At InSEM, we will use ovulation kits to determine the optimum time for the Intrauterine Insemination.
At InSEM, you have the option to have the insemination procedure performed by our experienced team at our clinic, or you can choose to do it in the comfort and privacy of your own home with our InSEM Kit. If you are ready to get started, get in contact with us today.
To learn more, visit our IUI process page or download our step-by-step guide for IUI.
When is IUI recommended?
Before a decision is made about whether or not IUI is right for you, your specialised team of nurses and doctors will review your medical history and perform standard testing prior to treatment. This involves routine prenatal testing (blood check-up) and if you have a partner, a semen assessment to check the sperm.
IUI is an option for those who are having difficulty with conception on their own and for couples and individuals who need donor sperm to achieve a pregnancy.
IUI treatment is also recommended in a number of different situations
- Infertility caused by mild endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Mild male factor infertility – Reduced sperm quality
- Unexplained infertility
IUI treatment is not recommended and often not effective when used for the following reasons
- Blockage of both fallopian tubes
- Severe endometriosis
- Severe pelvic scarring
- Severe male factor infertility
For these conditions, in vitro fertilisation (IVF) is the treatment of choice.
Whether you have a partner or are single, IUI is normally the starting point for many of our patients before exploring other types of fertility treatment depending on their personal circumstances.
If you need further assistance along the way or require any other type of fertility treatment, we’ve got you covered. We are more than happy to refer you to our partners. As part of City Fertility National Network, we can give you access to a comprehensive range of fertility services. Rest assured that we are in this together and we will do everything we can to help make your dreams of parenthood a reality.
