What is IUI?
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) involves a laboratory procedure to separate fast moving sperm from more sluggish or non-moving sperm. The fast moving sperm are then placed into the woman’s womb close to the time of ovulation when the egg is released from the ovary in the middle of the monthly cycle.
Is IUI for me?
IUI may be recommended if:
- there is unexplained infertility
- there are ovulation problems
- the male partner experiences impotence or premature ejaculation
It is essential that your fallopian tubes are known to be open and healthy before the IUI process begins. A tubal patency test is usually carried out as part of your assessment by the fertility clinic.
The second essential requirement is that there is no significant problem with sperm numbers or sperm quality.
IUI options
IUI can be given with or without fertility drugs to boost egg production. You should discuss the risks involved in using fertility drugs and whether IUI without fertility drugs might be suitable for you.
If IUI is unsuccessful – you may want to talk to your clinician about other procedures such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF).
To book an appointment or find out more about our world-class Gynaecology & Fertility Care, please get in touch.
Dear Mr Gelbaya, I am shocked and delighted all at once. This may seem insane but I have taken 6 pregnancy tests, yes six!, yesterday and today and they are all positive. I nearly fainted when i did a test. I just didn’t believe it after I had spent the weekend grieving that I may never have a baby if ICSI was not successful
