Home > INFERTILITY TREATMENT > Infertility-Diagnosis > IUI
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), sometimes referred to as artificial insemination,
is a procedure in which sperms are washed, concentrated and injected directly into
the woman's uterus. When eggs are ovulated, IUI increases the number of sperm in
the fallopian tubes, where fertilization takes place, and therefore increases the
chances of fertilization. The cost of this procedure is comparatively affordable
than other fertility treatment. But as this process occurs in the fallopian tubes
hence, one of fallopian tubes should be normal (unblocked).
- There is an unsuccessful pregnancy through sexual intercourse at or around the time
of ovulation. The male sperm count and quality are adequate.
- There is a congenital cervical abnormality.
- The maintaining of survival of sperm is difficult due to amount and quality of cervical
mucus from inflammation.
- Normal pregnancy not achievable due to severe retroflexion or anteflexion of the
uterus.
- Scarring of the cervix prevents sperm penetration.
- From 10~12 days of menstrual cycle, the ovulation period is determined by ultrasound.
- At ovulation, semen sample is collected and sperms are washed, concentrated and
injected directly into the woman’s uterus.
- After insemination, depending on the patient’s condition, administration of luteinizing
hormone or progesterone injection is applied to strengthen the progestational stage.
Weak or low motility of sperm is a typical indication. Additionally, this treatment
can be carried out when a woman has antibodies to her husband’s sperm or has unknown
causes for infertility.
It is reported that the pregnancy rate is about 10~15% per IUI case.The cumulative
pregnancy rate increases when the procedure is repeated. In the case of ovarian
hyperstimulation, the success rate can be expected up to 20%.Usually, the treatment
is performed about 3~6 times, but, it may vary depends on the age of the woman,
cause of infertility and duration of infertility.
Before and after IUI, husband should avoid excessive drinking and / or hot sauna.
On the day of the procedure, avoid heavy exercise and do not overwork. After the
procedure, may return to the daily work and there is no restriction in taking bath
and/or sexual intercourse.