IUI: Your Questions Answered

The team at Center for Reproductive Health answers your frequently asked questions about Intrauterine insemination (IUI).

What is IUI?

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is an infertility treatment in which sperm are placed into your uterine cavity through a catheter. IUI is a type of artificial insemination in which sperm are injected directly into your uterine cavity near the time you ovulate. Your doctor may recommend IUI to treat many causes of infertility, especially when there is a problem with the sperm such as low sperm count or low motility. IUI bypasses the cervix, so it is a useful treatment if there is an incompatibility between sperm and the cervical mucus. This procedure can be performed with either your partners sperm or with sperm from a donor.

How is Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) performed?

The insemination takes a few minutes. The Endocrinologist will insert a small catheter through your cervix into your uterine cavity, and inject the sperm through the catheter into your uterus. You most likely will not feel discomfort during the procedure.

How can IUI help to improve my chances for pregnancy?

The sperm are placed very close to the site of fertilization. IUI also improves delivery of the sperm to the egg, especially when the sperm count is low or the sperm do not move well.

I heard that we may need to go through this procedure more than once. Is that true?

If you do not become pregnant, you may have to repeat the procedure during your next cycle. Further evaluation may be needed if you do not become pregnant. At Center for Reproductive Health, each patient has an individualized treatment plan to help achieve a healthy pregnancy. You will be provided with reliable information and support to make the best decision for your family.

How soon will we know if this treatment was successful?

You will most likely know in about 2 weeks – if you become pregnant, you may miss your next period. A blood test will confirm whether or not you are pregnant.

IUI is one of the many treatments offered to Center for Reproductive Health patients. You can make an appointment with Dr. Robins at Center for Reproductive Health by calling (509) 462-7070. Free nurse consultations are also available for new patients.

Still left with questions? Our Patient Liaisons are experts in the leading fertility treatments. You can submit questions to them online, here: http://crh.mdctlm2.wpengine.com/contact-us/.