Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is a fertility treatment that involves placing specially prepared sperm directly into a woman’s uterus during ovulation to increase the chances of fertilization. This procedure is commonly used for couples experiencing unexplained infertility, mild male factor infertility, or issues with cervical mucus. The process begins with monitoring the woman’s ovulation cycle, often aided by fertility medications to stimulate egg production. When ovulation is imminent, the sperm sample—collected and washed to concentrate the most active sperm—is inserted into the uterus using a thin catheter. IUI is a relatively simple, low-risk, and less invasive option compared to other assisted reproductive technologies, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF).
When is IUI Recommended?
- Unexplained infertility
- Mild male factor infertility (low sperm count or motility)
- Cervical mucus issues or hostile cervical conditions
- Ovulation disorders
- Same-sex couples or single women using donor sperm
Advantages of IUI
- Less invasive and more affordable than IVF
- Quick and relatively painless procedure
- Can be timed precisely with ovulation
- Enhances the number of sperm reaching the fallopian tubes
- Often the first step before considering more advanced treatments