Intrauterine Insemination: All that you need to know
Intrauterine Insemination All that you need to know 4

Intrauterine Insemination, abbreviated as IUI, is a fertility treatment where sperm is inserted directly into a woman’s uterus. It is a non-invasive procedure that aims to enhance the chances of natural pregnancy.

How is IUI performed?

Given below is the step-by-step procedure for IUI.

Step-1: Semen Washing 

This process involves preparing the semen sample. First, the semen is washed with a culture media that contains nourishing supplements. Then, repeated centrifugation is done to eliminate the seminal fluid and concentrate the sperm cells. This procedure takes around 40 -50 minutes.

Step-2: Monitoring for ovulation

It can be done at home using a urine ovulation predictor kit that detects the release of luteinizing hormone (LH). Another option is an imaging method that lets your doctor visualize the ovaries and the egg growth. In addition, the patient may also be given an injection of human chorionic gonadotropin or medications to make her ovulate one or more eggs at the required time.

Step-3: Insemination process

IUIs are generally done after detecting ovulation. The selected sperm cells are directly placed into the uterus using a thin catheter in the IUI procedure. It is performed near the time of ovulation, helping the sperm get closer to the egg.

What are the benefits of IUI?

The advantages of Intrauterine Insemination are as follows:

Who does IUI help?

IUI is most commonly used in the following scenarios:

Unexplained fertility

IUI is often carried out as the first treatment for unexplained infertility along with ovulation-inducing medications.

Cervical factor infertility

Sometimes there are issues with the cervix or cervical mucus. For example, if the cervical mucus is too thick, it may impede the sperm’s journey. In some other cases, the cervix itself prevents sperm from reaching the egg. IUI bypasses the cervix, depositing sperms directly into the uterus and increasing the number of sperms available to meet the egg.

Semen abnormalities or ejaculatory dysfunction

IUI can overcome problems such as low sperm count, decreased sperm mobility, below-average sperm concentration, or abnormalities in sperm shape and size.

Endometriosis-related infertility

In some cases, medications along with IUI treatment are considered the first treatment approach in case of infertility related to endometriosis

Psychological factors :

For women with vaginismus and couples inability to have penetrative intercourse, IUI can be done under sedation thus maximizing chances of conception.

What are the factors that affect the success rate of IUI?

The most determinant factor is the age of the female. The success rate for IUI tends to decrease in women who are over the age of 40. Given below are some other factors that affect the outcome of Intrauterine Insemination.

Dr. Partha has been extensively trained in reproductive endocrinology, infertility, and genetics at various tertiary care centers. His precision-oriented approach is the main reason that has made him and his clinic the best IUI center in Dubai. So if you are seeking the best IUI or ICSI treatment in Dubaibook your appointment today.

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Dr Partha Das

Dr Partha Das is a highly skilled fertility/IVF Physician specializing in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. Dr Partha consults and manages patients presenting with complex gynecological, male and female infertility issues and management of recurrent miscarriage and IVF failures.

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