Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a gentler, less invasive fertility treatment supporting individuals and couples with mild fertility challenges, same-sex couples, or those with unexplained infertility.
Dr Ritu will help you understand where IUI fits into your treatment plan, whether or not it can help you fall pregnant and what the benefits and risks are.
The IUI process involves placing a prepared, healthy sperm directly into the uterus just before ovulation happens. At this optimal time, the procedure helps the sperm reach the egg more easily and increases the chance of fertilisation compared to without intervention. Sometimes ovulation-inducing medication may be used to help the process along.
IUI does not require stimulating ovaries to produce eggs or egg retrieval, and fertilisation happens naturally inside the body with a little help from Dr Ritu.
Just like IVF, IUI success rates depend on your age, cause of infertility, ovulation patterns and overall health and lifestyle.
IUI is a relatively gentle and straightforward fertility treatment that involves placing prepared sperm directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation.
Dr Ritu will review your medical history, fertility goals, and any factors that may affect treatment. Hormone blood tests and a pelvic ultrasound may be recommended to assess ovulation, ovarian reserve, and overall reproductive health.
IUI may be performed in a natural cycle or with ovulation-inducing medication. Blood tests and ultrasounds help track ovarian follicle development so the procedure can be timed for when ovulation is most likely to occur.
A semen sample is usually collected on the day of treatment and then processed in the laboratory. This helps separate the most active sperm and prepare a concentrated sample for insemination.
The prepared sperm is placed into the uterus using a thin, flexible catheter. By placing the sperm closer to the egg, IUI can improve the chance of fertilisation.
Most women can return to normal activities shortly after the procedure, although mild cramping or light spotting may occur. Your clinic will let you know what to expect afterwards and when to get in touch if needed.
A pregnancy test is usually done about 14 days after IUI. This waiting period can feel long, but Dr Ritu will guide you through the next steps and explain the result.
IUI offers several advantages for many people, especially those who are starting out on their journey to growing their families.
IUI is generally considered a safe fertility procedure but Dr Ritu will inform you of the potential risks and what you can do to mitigate them while achieving the best possible outcome.
