Intra Uterine Insemination IUI

The placement of motile sperm near
to the fallopian tubes in your womb
to encourage fertilisation

Introduction Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) Treatment

IUI treatment ensures that only the highest quality, washed sperm are selected and injected into the uterus close to your egg at ovulation, where they are left to fertilise your egg(s) naturally. IUI treatment can incorporate either your partner’s or donor sperm.

Why IUI treatment

IUI treatment is appropriate for same sex female couples, single women and heterosexual couples who wish to use donated sperm.

This fertility pathway may also be undertaken where the male partner has healthy sperm but anatomical problems have caused difficulties with ejaculation and sperm retrieval is required.

Women with known ovulation problems may also undergo an IUI treatment using their partner’s sperm. It may be necessary to stimulate their ovaries prior to this course of treatment.

Natural Cycle

If you are having IUI treatment, this quick and simple procedure will be undertaken at the time you ovulate naturally in your cycle. You may need to do some blood tests or urine Ovulation predictor tests to ascertain the correct time of ovulation. Sometimes an ultrasound scan may also be necessary to confirm the time of ovulation enabling an accurate timing for the IUI treatment.

MEDICATED CYCLE

In the case of ovarian stimulation, where by tablets or hormones may be given to aid egg production In the ovaries, the treatment is timed to coincide with the point that your egg(s) is/are released from your ovaries following close observation. You will also be required to continue any medication in order that your body can progress and sustain the developing embryo.

IUI vs IVF

IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) is a versatile fertility treatment recommended for various scenarios, including ovulation challenges despite medication, minor sperm abnormalities, and difficulties with ejaculation. It’s also well-suited for lesbian or gay couples using donor sperm or frozen sperm from prior medical procedures. IUI often serves as the initial treatment choice for unexplained infertility, mild endometriosis, or mild male factor infertility

IUI : Understanding the Process

The procedure involves having processed and washed sperm inserted directly into your uterus near the fallopian tubes using a catheter and is usually painless. You will be asked to wait for a short time after the procedure.

On the other hand, IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) represents an advanced assisted reproductive technology that combines eggs and sperm in a laboratory environment. This process follows ovarian stimulation to produce multiple eggs, incorporating procedures like transvaginal ultrasound-guided egg retrieval and embryo transfer, with continuous monitoring of embryo development. IVF offers a comprehensive approach, particularly beneficial when conventional treatments have not yielded success, making it a preferred option for addressing complex fertility challenges.

IUI Fertility Treatment: What Happens Next?

After an IUI treatment, you can carry on as normal but do rest at any time you need to. Strenuous exercise is not recommended as this is now the time of the ‘two week wait’ to see if implantation of a fertilised egg has occurred.

The signs of implantation can be subtle. Some women become pregnant without experiencing any symptoms whilst others may have symptoms similar to the side effects of the procedure itself.

To confirm whether implantation has been successful, you can opt to take a home pregnancy test after 14 days but the clinic will confirm your pregnancy with ultrasound scans and blood tests before discharging you back to your own GP for antenatal care.

After IUI Procedure : Understanding Potential Side Effects

It is common for women to experience some vaginal discharge after an IUI. This is not leakage as the sperm have been carefully placed inside your uterus. However, it is likely that some cervical mucus may have been dislodged during an IUI procedure. You may also experience some slight spotting which is quite normal. If you have mild cramping and discomfort, do try to take it easy and rest. If you have any concerns, you can contact the clinic for advice.

Treatments

Find out more about our related services

Why Choose Us?

Here are some facts about your fertility journey with us that we’d like to share with you:

Every evaluation and treatment plan is uniquely tailored to meet your individual needs

You will have access to leading professionals, with over 35 years combined expertise, providing you with confidence and reassurance in your fertility diagnosis and subsequent treatment

Our multidisciplinary team includes specialists in fertility, urology, nutrition, counselling, genetics, endocrinology, haematology and weight management to provide a comprehensive range of support as and when you need it

We will work with you closely to understand your individual circumstances, identify any problems and agree with you, the best course of action to help make your dream a reality

We will always be honest and open about your chances of success with treatment.

Your comfort and care is always our top priority

Our focus remains entirely on you as an individual, your unique needs and your wellbeing

All investigations and treatments are provided within our new state-of-the-art clinic based in Elstree which offers a spacious environment with comfortable surroundings, to enhance your care and experience. We offer investigations and scans at our satellite locations too.

Our friendly consultant-led team is here to support you at every step throughout your fertility journey

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