Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a widely used fertility treatment designed to enhance the chances of conception. By directly inserting sperm into a woman's uterus around the time of ovulation, IUI increases the likelihood of sperm meeting the egg. Here is a detailed overview of the IUI procedure.
What is IUI?
IUI stands for intrauterine insemination, a fertility treatment that involves placing sperm inside a woman's uterus to facilitate fertilization. The goal of IUI is to increase the number of sperm that reach the fallopian tubes and subsequently increase the chance of fertilization.
Who Can Benefit from IUI?
IUI is commonly recommended for:
- Couples with unexplained infertility.
- Women with cervical mucus problems.
- Men with mild sperm abnormalities.
- Couples with ejaculatory dysfunction.
- Women with mild endometriosis.
- Same-sex couples and single women using donor sperm.
Step-by-Step Process of IUI
- Initial Consultation and Testing:
- A comprehensive fertility evaluation is conducted for both partners, which includes medical history, physical examinations, blood tests, and imaging studies.
- Semen analysis is performed to assess sperm count, motility, and morphology.
- Ovarian Stimulation:
- Women may receive medications (oral or injectable) to stimulate the ovaries and encourage the development of multiple follicles.
- Regular monitoring through blood tests and ultrasounds tracks follicle development and hormonal levels.
- Triggering Ovulation:
- When the follicles reach an optimal size, an injection of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is administered to trigger ovulation.
- The timing of this injection is crucial to ensure that ovulation occurs approximately 36 hours later, coinciding with the IUI procedure.
- Sperm Collection and Preparation:
- On the day of the IUI, a sperm sample is collected from the male partner or thawed from a previously frozen donor sample.
- The sperm is washed and concentrated to remove seminal fluid and non-motile sperm, enhancing the chances of fertilization.
- Insemination:
- The prepared sperm is loaded into a thin catheter.
- The woman lies on an exam table, and a speculum is inserted into the vagina to visualize the cervix.
- The catheter is gently inserted through the cervix and into the uterus, where the sperm is released.
- The procedure is relatively quick, typically taking just a few minutes.
- Post-Procedure:
- The woman may rest for a short period before resuming normal activities.
- Mild cramping or spotting may occur, which is usually temporary.
- Waiting Period and Pregnancy Test:
- A two-week wait follows the procedure, during which the woman is advised to monitor for signs of pregnancy.
- A blood test or home pregnancy test is conducted to determine if the procedure was successful.
Success Rates and Considerations
- The success rates of IUI vary depending on factors such as age, underlying fertility issues, and the use of fertility medications.
- On average, the success rate per cycle ranges from 10% to 20%, with higher chances when combined with ovarian stimulation.
- Multiple cycles may be necessary for achieving pregnancy.
- IUI is generally considered safe, with minimal risks of infection, multiple pregnancies, and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).
Conclusion
IUI is a valuable fertility treatment for many couples and individuals facing infertility challenges. By understanding the step-by-step process and collaborating closely with a fertility specialist, patients can optimize their chances of achieving a successful pregnancy.
Credits: EVA IVF &WOMEN'S CENTRE