Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
It is the process of injecting concentrated sperm
directly into the uterus at the time of ovulation by means of a
catheter directed through the cervix, has been practiced for many years.
It is one of
several
infertility treatments
that use a small catheter to insert “washed” sperm directly into the uterus.
The goal
of IUI is
to increase the number
of good sperm that reach the fallopian tubes and subsequently increase the chance of
fertilization.
The use of
clomiphene citrate or injectable medications, called gonadotropins, combined with IUI, increases
the chance of
conception.
We time the intrauterine insemination with an ultrasound scan. This is an
important
aspect of treatment
because it enables us to predict ovulation before it occurs.
IUI is usually selected as a
treatment for conditions including
- Unexplained Infertility
- Ovulation Problems
- Low Sperm Count Decreased Sperm Motility
- Donor Sperm
- A Hostile Cervical Condition Such as Cervical Mucus that is too Thick or Cervical Scar Tissue from Past Procedures
- Ejaculation Dysfunction and Timing Issues
- Failed Treatment with Clomiphene Without Inseminations
PREPARATION OF IUI CYCLE
Prior to beginning an IUI cycle, the couple will need to have a basic fertility workup, including lab work, semen analysis, and an HSG or laparoscopy to be sure the fallopian tubes are open. The female spouse will be asked to report on day 3 of the menstrual cycle for an ultrasound scan & if required a blood test for hormonal analysis, Medications will be prescribed based on the investigations & the female spouse will be asked to report back on the day 12 or 13 depending on the follicular size on the basal scan i.e. on day 3. Make sure you and your husband will be in town and available during the treatment process. If the husband cannot be available during the IUI process the semen sample can be frozen to be used for the insemination when required.
