Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) involves inserting the male partner’s (or donor’s) prepared semen through the cervix into the uterus, close to the time of ovulation. It is a simpler, less invasive form of fertility treatment. The semen sample is analysed and washed to concentrate the motile sperm. The final prepared sample is then gently inserted into the uterine cavity using a speculum and a small catheter.
IUI is also used when couples need to use a sperm donor. Donor sperm may be recommended when the male partner has problems with sperm quality or production, including cases of very poor sperm quality, or when there is a high risk of passing on a genetic disease.
The intrauterine insemination procedure is relatively painless and less invasive compared to other fertility treatments. Fertility medications are used to support the success of the treatment. The sperm is then introduced into the uterus around the time of ovulation using a catheter. The process is explained below.
