Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is the most common type of artificial insemination and is used to treat infertility. The procedure involves placing washed sperm directly inside a woman’s uterus to facilitate egg fertilization.  Since sexual intercourse only permits a small percentage of sperm to travel successfully through the female genital and reproductive tract, IUI was developed to dramatically increase the number of sperm reaching the fallopian tubes, therefore increasing the chances of egg fertilization (resulting in a normal pregnancy).

The IUI process is more effective that earlier types of artificial insemination since the process bypasses the cervix and allows the sperm to directly target the ovaries, without being slowed or blocked by lower sections of the reproductive tract.  Depending on the cause of infertility, IUI can be coordinated with a woman’s normal menstrual cycle or used in conjunction with fertility medications.  In fact, fertility medications are often used during IUI treatment to achieve a condition called controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH).  Studies indicate that this may substantially increase the success rate of the IUI procedure.

Normally, three or so cycles of IUI are attempted and if successful conception is not achieved, the physician may recommend a more aggressive approach such as in vitro fertilization (IVF).  Patients with additional questions or concerns pertaining to IUI should consult with their health care provider.

Contact our office to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.