Artificial insemination, or Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), is sometimes recommended as a simpler and more affordable starting point for fertility treatment, before considering IVF.
If you or your partner has been diagnosed with unexplained infertility, hostile cervical mucus, minor sperm abnormalities or other male fertility issues, IUI is often a successful process. It can also be used in cases where semen has been frozen – due to a husband's absence, or before chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
What does IUI involve?
IUI involves inserting the male partner’s (or donor’s) prepared sperm through the neck of the womb (cervix) and into the uterus, close to the time of ovulation. It is not a painful or invasive procedure, in fact it’s very much like having a pap smear.
Sometimes you may experience mild short-term cramps, but you should be able to return to work straight away.
It can be performed during a natural cycle or with Ovulation Induction.
Insemination with donor sperm
Artificial insemination is also used when couples use a sperm donor. It is important to note that donor semen suitable for IUI is more difficult to obtain and may not always be available. Donor sperm may be recommended when the male partner has problems with sperm quality or production – including when the sperm is of very poor quality – or if there is a high risk of passing on a genetic condition. Using a sperm donor is also an option for single women or same sex couples.
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