The rate at which IUI is practised globally is so high because it offers fertility to the many individuals who are finding themselves unable to conceive. In this article, we will examine what is IUI, IUI process and issues that might affect IUI success rate.

What is IUI?

IUI means intrauterine insemination which is a procedure for assisted reproduction where sperm is injected directly into the uterus during ovulation to increase the odds of fertilization which contrasts it with natural conception. For instance, sperm must go through the cervix towards the uterus and fallopian tubes; whereas IUI offers them a shorter way. Thus, the sperm can access the egg more easily. This treatment can make use of a partner’s or donor’s sperm and is usually suggested to people who cannot bear children intending to have children.

Why Consider IUI?

IUI is often recommended for different fertility problems. Below are some of such cases.

• Low sperm count: In cases where your partner’s sperm count is low or they have trouble with motility, IUI can help increase the possibility of the sperm getting to the egg.
• Unexplained Infertility: For households with infertility that cannot be classified, IUI offers a less invasive option compared to in vitro fertilization (IVF).
• Problems with cervical mucus: Sometimes the lining of the uterus doesn’t produce a certain type of mucus to help sperm swim toward the and bypasses this barrier.
• Same-Sex Couples or Single Parents: IUI is generally employed for people or same-gender couples seeking to have babies with the help of a sperm donor.
• Irregular ovulation: In such cases, IUI can be used together with fertility drugs to induce ovulation in women whose ovulation cycle is interrupted.

The IUI Process: Step-by-Step

The IUI procedure usually takes about one cycle or about four weeks. Here’s how to start the process:

• Ovulation tracking

To achieve IUI success, timing is crucial. Use an ovulation kit, blood test, or ultrasound to track ovulation and determine when your ovaries will release an egg. Some people may be given fertility drugs to stimulate ovulation and increase the number of eggs available for fertilization.

• Sperm Collection and Preparation

On the day of the procedure, Sperm is taken from a partner or dissolved from a donor. Then wash the penis to separate healthy, motile sperm from the semen. This procedure ensures that only the strongest sperm are used for the process. This increases the chance of pregnancy.

• Insemination

When the cervix is damaged The washed sperm is carefully inserted into the uterus through a thin, flexible tube called a catheter. This process is quick. It only takes a few minutes. and painless

• Post-Procedure Rest

After insemination, patients may be advised to lie down for about 10–15 minutes to allow the sperm to move through the uterus. However, no bed rest is required after the procedure.

• The Waiting Period

A pregnancy test can be done approximately two weeks after insemination to ensure that the procedure is successful.

IUI Success Rates

IUI success rates vary depending on many factors. including age and reproductive problems Success rates usually range from 10-20% per scan, depending on the individual case.

• Age limit

• same as pregnancy Age plays a role in the success of IUI treatment.
• Women under 35 have the highest success rate, between 15% and 25%.
• The success rate for women ages 35-40 drops to about 10-15%.
• Women over 40 have a lower success rate of about 5%.
• This is due to the lower quality and quantity of eggs. Doctors may recommend IVF instead of IUI for women over 40.

• Basic reproductive problems

• Specific infertility problems can increase or decrease IUI success.
• Unexplained Infertility: IUI works well in individuals who do not have diagnosed infertility problems.
• Pelvic floor problems: Success rates are higher for women with pelvic floor problems. Because this process can overcome such obstacles.
• Sperm quality: If sperm and IUI are involved, it can increase the chances of fertilization. However, in cases of severe genital herpes, alternative treatments such as IVF may be more appropriate.

• Number of rounds

Success rates increase with repeated IUI cycles. Many IVF specialist recommend at least 3-6 IUI cycles before switching to invasive treatment.

Risks Associated with IUI

IUI is a safe and commonly performed procedure, but like any medical intervention, it comes with some risks:

• Multiple Pregnancies: Fertility medications used during IUI can increase the likelihood of twins or even triplets. While this can be seen as a positive, multiple pregnancies also carry higher risks for both mother and babies.
• Infection: There’s a small chance of infection during the insemination process.
• Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): If fertility medications overstimulate the ovaries, it can lead to OHSS, a condition causing swelling and discomfort in the ovaries.

Enhancing IUI Success

There are several ways you can increase your probability of achieving success with IUI:

1. Healthy lifestyle: eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and reducing stress may favorably impact fertility.
2. Follow medical advice: Take care to take your infertility medications diligently. Meanwhile, obey your doctor’s timetable and preparations for IUI.
3. Acupuncture: Some studies suggest that acupuncture before or after IUI can improve blood flow to the uterus and increase the chances of pregnancy.
4. Consider Multiple Cycles: If your first IUI doesn’t result in pregnancy, don’t lose hope. Repeated cycles often lead to better outcomes.

Conclusion

For individuals as well as couples facing troubles in conceiving, Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) can be an effective fertility treatment option. Knowledge of the IUI process, success rates and other important factors will make you able to make more informed decisions regarding your reproductive health. IUI is a vital step for many who wish to become parents. Always talk to an IVF specialist in India  before deciding on whether or not it is the best thing for you based on the state of your health.

When well-prepared, patient and supported through this process, IUI can enhance conception chances thus getting you closer to your dream of starting or expanding a family.

Also Read – Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) : Types, Symptoms, & Treatments