Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
IUI is intended for couples who have been trying to conceive naturally for a longer period but have not succeeded, despite the woman having confirmed ovulation. The cause may be mildly reduced sperm quality, decreased cervical mucus permeability, a mild form of endometriosis, or an immunological factor causing infertility.
What is IUI?
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a simple and effective method of assisted reproduction that can help couples who are struggling with conception. This method is often chosen by those seeking a more natural and less demanding approach to becoming pregnant. At Reprofit, we focus on providing individual care and support to each patient, and we use the latest techniques to increase the success rate of this treatment.
How does IUI work?
During IUI, sperm are placed directly into the uterus at the time of ovulation, which increases the chances of fertilization. This procedure helps bring a higher concentration of sperm closer to the egg, maximizing the chance of conception. Before the procedure, doctors prepare the sperm and select only the highest-quality ones to be introduced into the uterus.
What is the IUI process?
Preparation and monitoring of ovulation
Correct timing is crucial for the success of IUI. Your doctor may schedule an ultrasound examination or recommend using home ovulation tests. This helps ensure that the procedure takes place at the optimal moment.
Sperm preparation
On the day of the procedure, the partner provides a semen sample. This sample is processed to select only the highest quality sperm.
Insemination
The doctor gently introduces the prepared sperm into the uterus using a thin catheter. The entire procedure takes only a few minutes and is usually painless, allowing the patient to go home immediately afterward.
What should you know before starting treatment?
Before starting IUI treatment, both you and your partner will undergo several examinations to properly set up the treatment. Common tests include:
- Ultrasound examination of the uterus
- Partner’s semen analysis (spermiogram)
- Blood tests, as recommended by the doctor
It is also advisable to take folic acid, usually for at least three months before the planned insemination. This supplement is a common part of prenatal vitamins and can help support a healthy pregnancy.
What is the success rate of IUI?
The success rate of IUI ranges between 5–7% per cycle, depending on the woman's age and the specific causes of infertility. Since IUI is less invasive than other reproductive methods, it is often recommended as the first step in infertility treatment.
If pregnancy is not achieved after several IUI attempts, the doctor may suggest alternative options, such as IVF (in vitro fertilization).
How much does IUI cost?
After an initial consultation, we will provide you with an overview of the recommended procedures and a precise cost estimate.
Health insurance covers up to 6 cycles of intrauterine insemination (IUI) if not combined with stimulation, and up to 3 cycles if hormonal stimulation is used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
You can return to your normal daily activities after the procedure. We recommend avoiding physically demanding activities, but otherwise you can do anything that feels comfortable.
We recommend waiting approximately two weeks after the procedure before taking a pregnancy test.
The procedure is usually painless. Some patients may experience mild discomfort, but any unpleasant sensations typically disappear quickly.
We usually recommend 2 to 6 IUI cycles. If the method is not successful, we will consider other treatment options, such as IVF, which may be more effective.
Preparation includes monitoring ovulation through ultrasound scans. The procedure itself takes only a few minutes. The partner needs to arrive around 2.5 hours beforehand to provide a semen sample.
Yes. If the doctor does not identify any obstacles, you can proceed with another cycle immediately in the next menstrual cycle.
Yes, IUI can also be performed using donor sperm, according to the doctor’s recommendations.
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