IUI is often the initial step in the IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) process, helping to prepare the uterus for potential embryo implantation. During an intrauterine insemination (IUI) procedure, sperm is placed directly into the uterus using a small catheter. The goal of this treatment is to improve the chances of fertilization by increasing the number of healthy sperm that reach the fallopian tubes when the woman is most fertile.
IUI is minimally invasive, and patients do not even require pain medication or anaesthesia during treatment. Patients may experience a slight pinching experience (similar to that experienced during a routine pap smear) and a little cramping as the catheter is passed through the cervix.
Procedure: Sperm is washed and concentrated before being inserted into the uterus. This method significantly reduces the distance sperm must travel to reach the egg, increasing the likelihood of conception2.
Timing: IUI is usually performed around the time of ovulation, with implantation of a fertilized egg typically occurring 6 to 10 days later12.
Success Rates: The effectiveness of IUI varies based on individual circumstances, but when combined with fertility drugs, success rates can reach approximately 20% per cycle. This rate is comparable to natural conception for many couples23.
Emotional Considerations
The waiting period following IUI can be emotionally taxing for couples. It is common for individuals to experience anxiety while awaiting confirmation of pregnancy through home tests or blood tests, typically conducted about two weeks post-procedure. Support from healthcare providers and loved ones is crucial during this time12.
How IUI Works :
- Preparation: Before the procedure, women may be prescribed fertility medications to stimulate ovulation and prepare their eggs for fertilization. Monitoring through ultrasounds and blood tests helps determine the optimal timing for insemination.
- Sperm Washing: The sperm sample, collected from a partner or donor, undergoes a process called "sperm washing." This technique concentrates healthy sperm and removes substances that could irritate the uterus, increasing the likelihood of successful implantation.
- Insemination Procedure: During the IUI procedure, a thin catheter is gently inserted through the cervix into the uterus, where the prepared sperm is deposited. This process typically takes only a few minutes and does not require anaesthesia, although some women may experience mild cramping.
Benefits of IUI :
- Minimally Invasive: IUI is less invasive than other fertility treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF), making it a preferred first step for many couples.
- Cost-Effective: Generally, IUI is more affordable than IVF, with costs ranging from approximately $300 to $1,000 per cycle depending on various factors like location and insurance coverage.
- Quick Procedure: The entire process can be completed in about 5-10 minutes, allowing patients to return to their normal activities shortly afterwards.
Dr. Pavan Bendale, a renowned IVF specialist in Nigdi, Ravet, and Pimpri Chinchwad, is dedicated to providing personalized care throughout the IUI process, ensuring a supportive environment for couples on their fertility journey.
