For many couples and individuals of diverse backgrounds throughout the world, artificial insemination is a solution to make the family they have been dreaming of become a reality. Through insemination, a doctor can manually insert a man’s sperm directly into a woman’s uterus, fallopian tubes or cervix. Depending on the situation, the sperm may be from the father-to-be or a sperm donor and the uterus may be that of the mother-to-be or a surrogate. The most common method of insemination is implantation of the sperm into the uterus, or Intrauterine Insemination (IUI).
How Does IUI Work?
Placing the sperm directly into the uterus facilitates natural fertilization for a pregnancy to be achieved. In many cases of unexplained infertility or other fertility complications, manual introduction of reproductive materials with this method enables fertilization to take place where it would otherwise be unable to. To perform IUI, the doctor will need sperm from the father-to-be or sperm donor. The sperm undergoes a washing procedure before being transferred into the uterus. The mother or surrogate is then monitored to see if a pregnancy was achieved.
3 Things to Consider Before IUI
1. What Is the Success Rate of IUI?
The success rate with IUI is dependent upon the couple’s or individual’s unique circumstances, but most can anticipate a success rate ranging from 5-15 percent (dependent on sperm quality and egg provider’s reproductive age) on the first IUI attempt. This success rate becomes less favorable with subsequent attempts, but the overall and cumulative pregnancy rate peaks around the third or fourth cycle. Many individuals that do not conceive on their first IUI cycle find success within these attempts.
If a successful pregnancy is not reached after four IUI attempts, further attempts would rarely result in a successful pregnancy. In such circumstances, IVF becomes the next option for many couples. In a way, if IUI does not result in a successful pregnancy after 3-4 cycles, that means there are other variables involved that IUI is just not sufficient enough to accomplish a healthy pregnancy.
2. Is IUI Affordable?
With any infertility solution you will need to be prepared for financial investment to a certain extent. The total cost of IUI depends on where you live, your insurance coverage and your exact treatment needs, but it is typically a much more affordable infertility solution than most other options, such as IVF. Before committing to IUI, speak with a doctor and clinic representative to discuss the financial investment you can expect with the treatment.
3. Is IUI the BEST Solution for You?
Intrauterine insemination is a beneficial procedure for a variety of individuals, but it may not be the best solution for everyone facing infertility struggles. Before you move forward with IUI, discuss your infertility concerns with one of our doctors at LA IVF. Our team is here to help evaluate your needs to help you find the best solution for you and your growing family.
Is IUI Right for You?
Determining whether IUI is right for you depends on a number of factors, including your current circumstances and the medical history of you and your partner. The following is a list of common indications that IUI may be the ideal solution to make pregnancy a reality:
- Fallopian tubes are open, not blocked
- Enough quality eggs
- Cervical mucus concerns
- Low sperm motility or count
- Unexplained infertility
- Mild Endometriosis and PCOS
Speak with a Medical Professional about IUI
While IUI is a reliable fertility solution, it is not the right option for everyone. There are some contraindications that may require flexibility to find another solution that will work better for you, and we can help. If you have been struggling with fertility and know you are ready to have the family you have been dreaming of, contact our team at LA IVF. Our doctors and staff are professionally trained and experienced and can help you make the best decision for you and your family as you continue your journey to parenthood.