Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is a safe, minimally invasive fertility treatment designed to increase the chances of natural fertilisation by placing a carefully prepared sperm sample directly into the uterine cavity at the time of ovulation.
The procedure is performed in a licensed Assisted Reproduction Unit and is carefully timed to coincide with ovulation, either during a natural menstrual cycle or following mild ovarian stimulation.
On the day of treatment, the semen sample undergoes specialised laboratory processing (sperm preparation) to isolate the healthiest, most motile sperm while removing seminal plasma and other unwanted cells and debris.
The prepared sperm sample is then gently introduced into the uterus using a fine, flexible catheter. The procedure usually takes only a few minutes, does not require anaesthesia, and most women experience little or no discomfort.
The success of IUI depends on several factors, including the woman’s age, semen quality, the underlying cause of infertility and careful patient selection. For this reason, every couple undergoes a comprehensive fertility assessment to determine whether IUI is the most appropriate treatment option.
Is Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) Painful?
No. Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a quick and generally painless procedure that takes only a few minutes and does not require anaesthesia. Most women experience little or no discomfort, although some may feel mild cramping similar to that of a routine gynaecological examination. In most cases, patients can return to their normal daily activities immediately after the procedure.
What Are the Success Rates of Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)?
The success of intrauterine insemination (IUI) depends on several factors, including the woman’s age, semen quality, the underlying cause and duration of infertility, and careful patient selection. An individual fertility assessment is essential to estimate the likelihood of success and determine whether IUI is the most appropriate treatment option for each couple.