Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
IUI, or artificial insemination, is a common fertility treatment used for a variety of infertility issues. This is considered as a less invasive approach, than some ART ( Assisted Reproductive Technology) Producers, because the critical steps required for conception must occur.
IUI is generally suitable for couples who have unexplained infertility, the male semen defect or donor sperm is required. This is a fertility process where washed sperm is placed in the uterus during the ovulation in order to assist conception. Sperm can be provided by the woman’s partner or donor sperm.
This technique is recommended when infertility is:- -unexplained;
- -secondary to a male factor, cervical factor, mild tubal factor
- -caused by endometriosis but tubal patency (opening) is established.
We monitor the female partner’s follicular phase through hormonal testing and ultrasounds, which assists in adjusting medication scheduling the insemination to coincide with ovulation. The insemination procedure involves placing a fraction of motile sperms into the uterine cavity via a catheter, with chances of success maximized by ovulation induction. Progesterone supplement, may also be administered during the patient’s luteal phase.
The follicular phase is the first part of the menstrual cycle where ovarian follicular development and egg maturation occurs. The luteal phase is the last part of the cycle after ovulation when the follicle becomes the corpus luteum that produces the hormone progesterone.
How does IUI work?
Process 1 - Stimulation - A low dose of Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) is administered each day from day 5 (approximately) of the menstrual cycle. Regular assessment takes place by blood tests (by measuring hormone levels in the blood) and ultrasound scan to track the reaction to the FSH and identify when you are close to ovulation.
Process 2 - Insemination - The insemination is a simple process where a speculum is inserted into the vagina and washed sperm is being injected into the top of the uterus through a small catheter. This procedure is done in the morning where the male partner is required to produce a semen sample which is then washed in the laboratory.
Process 3 - Luteal Phase - Luteal support is given to ensure adequate progesterone levels and maintain the uterine lining. Approximately 18 days after insemination , a blood test is performed for pregnancy.