In the realm of fertility treatments, Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is a commonly used and effective procedure. The first documented birth of a baby via IUI took place in the 1770s in the UK. Also referred to as artificial insemination, IUI can be a less invasive and more affordable option for couples struggling with infertility. This assisted reproductive technology (ART) is the initial line of fertility treatment for many individuals and couples in their parenthood journey.

However, it is important that you learn as much as you can about aspects such as how IUI works, who are all good candidates for IUI, and what the success rates are. This knowledge will help you navigate through the ups and downs on the way to achieving your parenthood dream. Having said that, let’s delve into the details of IUI, from its procedure to its success rates and potential benefits.

Understanding IUI

In IUI, a fertility treatment, sperm is concentrated by washing it and then placed directly into the uterus with the help of a catheter. The procedure is done near the time of ovulation to increase the chances of fertilization. This procedure is often recommended for couples with unexplained infertility, mild male factor infertility, endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), using a sperm donor, cervical factor infertility, or when other treatments have not been successful. In this fertility treatment, the aim is to increase the number of healthy sperm reaching the fallopian tubes, especially during the fertile period of the ovulation cycle.

The Procedure

• Ovulation Induction: Before IUI, the woman may undergo ovulation induction with fertility medications to stimulate the ovaries and increase the chances of ovulation. The IVF expert you are working with monitors your menstrual cycle and decides the time for IUI. Blood tests are done to ascertain the hormone levels. Ovulation predictor tests and ultrasound scanning may also be performed.
• Semen Collection and Preparation: The male partner or a donor provides a semen sample, which is then washed and prepared in the lab to separate the healthy, motile sperm from the seminal fluid. If frozen sperm is used, it will be thawed and then prepared for insemination.
• Insemination: In this step, a thin, flexible catheter is used to transfer the prepared sperm into a woman’s uterus via the vagina and cervix. This process is painless and simple. It is usually performed in a clinic or fertility centre.
• Post-Insemination Care: On completion of the procedure, the woman will have to take rest for a while before resuming normal activities.
• Pregnancy Test: A pregnancy test is typically performed about two weeks after the procedure to determine if the IUI was successful. If the test is positive, it means that fertilization was successful and the embryo has attached itself to the wall of the uterus successfully.

Success Rates

Success rates for IUI can vary depending on various factors, including the woman’s age, the cause of infertility, and the number of cycles attempted. The IUI success rate ranges between 10% and 20% per cycle. Success rates tend to be higher in younger women and those with certain types of infertility.

Known factors that often impact the chances of successful outcomes include:

• Age – Women under 35 years of age generally have higher success rates.
• The reason for infertility – There are many types of infertility issues, including unexplained infertility, mild male factor infertility, and cervical issues. Individuals with these conditions have higher success rates compared to those with other underlying causes.
• Stimulation of ovulation
• Sperm quality – Normal sperm motility and higher sperm counts are linked to better success rates
• Lifestyle factors – Lifestyle choices like eating healthy, not drinking alcohol, not smoking, and exercising can positively impact success rates

Benefits of IUI

• Less Invasive: Compared to other fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), IUI is less invasive and generally has fewer side effects.
• Cost-Effective: IUI is often more affordable than IVF, making it a more accessible option for couples seeking fertility treatment.
• Natural Timing: IUI allows for the use of natural ovulation, reducing the need for extensive hormone treatments.
• Effective: This fertility treatment is also effective for bypassing cervical issues and male factor infertility.

Who Can Benefit from IUI?

Typically, IUI is the recommended fertility treatment for couples diagnosed with the following conditions:

• Unexplained infertility
• Mild male factor infertility
• Cervical factor infertility
• Ejaculation dysfunction
• Donor sperm use
• Same-sex female couples

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) can be helpful to couples who have infertility problems. By understanding the procedure, success rates, and potential benefits, couples can make informed decisions about their fertility journey. Consulting with a fertility specialist is key to determining if IUI is the right option and maximizing the chances of a successful outcome.

If you are looking for the best IUI centre in Hyderabad, you don’t have to go beyond Aanvi Fertility and Women’s Centre in Tilaknagar. The centre headed by Dr. Swarna, a fertility treatment specialist, boasts of high IUI success rates. The well-equipped centre offers services at competitive rates with the help of a team of specialists in the field of assisted reproductive technology.

This article is Verified by Dr Swarna