What is IUI Treatment?
Intrauterine insemination is artificial insemination, where washed and concentrated sperm are injected directly into the woman’s uterus. The objective of this procedure is to increase the number of sperm that reach the fallopian tubes and thereby maximize the chances of fertilization.
Indications for IUI
Mild male factor infertility with low sperm count or motility
Cervical factor infertility due to abnormal cervical mucus
Ovulatory disorders—for which ovulation-stimulating medications will be prescribed alongside the treatment
Couples with use of donor sperm
Steps of Normal IUI Cycle
Consultation and Evaluation
Medical History and Physical Examination:
Both partners are taken through a detailed history of medical conditions and physical examination to rule out any hidden disorders.
Diagnostic workup:
For Female: Hormonal blood work, pelvic ultrasound to evaluate ovaries and uterus, and in some cases, HSG for fallopian tubes.
For Male: Semen analysis to determine the count, motility, and morphology of sperms.
Ovulation Monitoring and Stimulation:
Natural Cycle IUI:
In a scenario where ovulation in the woman is normal, the treatment of IUI may be carried out on a natural cycle. Ovulation is monitored using blood tests and ultrasounds for the perfect timing of insemination.
Medicated Cycle IUI:
Medications targeted at inducing ovulation are taken to promote the release of multiple eggs. Gonadotropins, hormones injected into the system, are prescribed in some cases.
Sperm Collection and Preparation
Sperm Collection:
On the IUI treatment day, a semen sample is collected from the male partner or sperm donor.
Washing of Sperm
The semen sample will be washed in the laboratory. This process concentrates the healthiest sperm and washes out the seminal fluid.
Insemination Procedure
Insemination is timed at ovulation, about 24-36 hours after the administration of a trigger shot if one is undergoing ovulation induction, or at natural ovulation detection.
Post-Insemination and Follow-Up
IUI success rates are mostly based on the age factor, cause of infertility, and the use of fertility medications. The average success rate is between 10-20% per cycle.
Chances are that more women below the age of 35 years experience better success rates compared to others above that age.
Medications and fertility drugs: Ovulation-stimulating medications increase the chances of success in IUI treatment but have the risks like multiple pregnancies.
Multiple Pregnancies: The risk of multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets, etc.) is increased with fertility medications, which have higher health risks for both mother and babies.
Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome: This is a rare but more serious potential consequence of using gonadotropins, marked by swelling and pain in the ovaries.
Minor risk of infection or discomfort after or during the procedure. Such conditions may include Infection or cramping during or immediately after the procedure.
Conclusion
IUI stands for intrauterine insemination, one of the more common fertility treatments that is much less invasive and considerably cheaper compared to the other assisted reproductive technologies, such as IVF. Clearly, understanding the steps of a normal IUI cycle, factors influencing success, and possible risks might be useful in decision-making with a more realistic view. Consult with a fertility specialist to determine if IUI is the right treatment for your specific situation and to develop a personalized treatment plan.
FAQs
1. How many cycles of IUI are usually attempted before moving on to IVF?
Many fertility specialists will recommend 2-3 attempts at IUI before moving on to IVF. These again depend on individual factors and the cause of infertility.
2. Does IUI hurt?
Generally speaking, IUI is not at all painful. Some women may report little cramping, like menstrual cramps, either during or after the procedure.
3. What if IUI fails?
If IUI fails, then this is something you can discuss with your fertility specialist regarding possible reasons and next steps. This may include additional cycles or changes in medication, or moving to IVF.
4. Do lifestyle modifications improve the success of IUI?
Yes, apparently, healthy living that includes a balanced diet with a nothing-short-of-adequate amount of exercise and avoidance of injurious substances has positive effects on the IUI success rate.
