Intra Uterine Insemination (IUI) Procedure

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) Treatment

What is Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)?

If trying to conceive naturally is proving unsuccessful, a doctor may resort to artificial insemination (semen transfer). This is a quick medical technique that is used to deliver sperm into the woman's uterus. These could either be homologous (from a spouse) or heterologous (from a donor) sperm. This is accomplished by utilizing a catheter to deliver the prepared sperm straight into the female uterus after ovulation, which is brought about by hormonal stimulation. For example, in cases of minor male infertility issues, insemination is frequently employed.

When is an Insemination required?

A catheter is used to inject the prepared male sperm carefully straight into the uterus cavity at the time of natural ovulation for artificial insemination (also known as an IUI).

Insemination is advised for the following cases or issues:

When a man exhibits signs of infertility
When a couple is unable to engage in sexual activity
For same-sex couples, such as lesbians
If the cervix's distinctive features indicate that sperm ascension to the uterine cavity will be hampered due to a narrow cervix or irregularities in the area of the uterine neck.

IUI Procedure

The IUI procedure appears to be straightforward and pleasant. But as a first-timer, you can experience some anxiety. Therefore, being aware of the procedure might enable you to properly get ready for it. Let's look at that as well, then!

Step 1

Semen collection: At the very beginning, the doctor would take a little sperm for the process. It can be obtained through masturbation, which is quite similar to the examination of semen.

However, if your partner is unable to produce it at the hospital, he can do so at home. In this case, the doctor will give him a kit for collecting sterile sperm. However, the sample must arrive within an hour of the ejaculation.

Step 2

Semen Washing: A human's semen is made up of much more than just sperm. It also contains protein, vitamins, and other important components. So, before starting the procedure, your doctor will remove anything unnecessary. This is referred to as the washing procedure!

Step 3

Insertion of the Catheter: You will now need to lie down on an exam table with your legs raised in stirrups for the catheter insertion. The doctor will first place a speculum into the vagina and attach a catheter to a sperm-filled vial.

The catheter will then be inserted into your uterus through the cervical hole by the practitioner. After that, he or she will insert the tiny, thin tube with the sperm sample into the uterus. After finishing, they will take out the catheter and speculum, respectively.

Intrauterine insemination (IUI)