This reproductive method includes injecting sperm right into the uterus of a woman. During IUI, the sperm are “washed,” concentrated, and sent straight into the uterus, bringing them closer to the egg. This technique can increase the chances of conception in some couples who have had
difficulty conceiving.
Who may utilize IUI?
IUI is a very painless and inexpensive reproductive therapy when compared to more invasive and expensive techniques like in vitro fertilization (IVF). Couples may choose to begin with IUI in some circumstances before switching to IVF if required. IUI may be the sole procedure necessary to conceive.
The sperm of the donor is utilized during this process. IUI is most frequently used in the following situations:
● Unaccounted-for infertility.
● problems with the cervix, low sperm count, poor sperm motility, mild endometriosis, ejaculation or erection issues.
● Couples of the same sex hoping to conceive alone a woman hoping to create a child hoping to prevent passing on a genetic disorder from the male spouse.
The following situations prevent IUI from being effective:
● ladies who have experienced moderate to severe endometriosis
● women whose fallopian tubes have either been obstructed or removed both
● major fallopian tube disease in females
● women who regularly have pelvic infections
● guys without sperm production (unless the couple wishes to use donor sperm)
An alternative procedure, like IVF, may be beneficial in circumstances where IUI is not advised. If you wish to discuss your chances of becoming pregnant, your doctor can give you advice on the best course of action.
What you should expect after the procedure?
IUI is a painless, less invasive method. No medication is given when IUI is carried out during the so-called “natural cycle.” When a woman naturally ovulates, the sperm is inserted at a physician’s office around that time.
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), and clomiphene citrate (Clomid) are a few examples of drugs that can be used to encourage the ovaries to produce and release one or more eggs. Multiple egg ovulation often enhances the chance of conception.
What are the risks of the procedure?
There is a small danger of infection following an IUI procedure. Infection is quite rare because only sterile equipment will be used by your doctor.
If you use medication to encourage ovulation, there’s a risk you’ll get pregnant more than once. Since fertility medications increase the likelihood that even more than one egg will be released, multiple births are more likely.
Your doctor will make an effort to balance the quantity and kind of medication, as well as bloodwork and ultrasound monitoring, to prevent too many eggs from being released at once. When fertility medications, especially those given intravenously, cause the ovaries to overreact,
a disease known as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome can develop. Numerous eggs could develop and be discharged all at once. As a result, there can be discomfort, ovarian enlargement, and fluid buildup in the abdomen. In exceedingly rare instances, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome can cause ovarian twisting, renal problems, blood clots, and fluid retention in the chest and abdomen.
You should call your doctor right away if you are using fertility drugs for IUI and develop any of the following symptoms.
● feeling unsteady or lightheaded
● unexpectedly gaining more than 5 pounds
● breathing difficulties, nausea, and vomiting
● acute pelvic or abdominal pain, or an abrupt increase in abdominal size
What is the success rate?
IUI will work differently for every couple, and its success can be unpredictable. The result is influenced by a variety of factors, including:
● age at the time of the infertility diagnosis
● If or not there are any more underlying reproductive concerns
The probability of becoming pregnant following IUI varies depending on your reasons for doing reproductive therapy. The success rates of the treatment are frequently lower in women over the age of 40 and in women who have undergone three cycles of IUI without being pregnant.
Discuss the possibility of success with your fertility professional to decide if this is a good option for you.
Cost of the procedure
Depending on your location and your needs, the cost of IUI therapy may vary. The clinic reports the average cost of an IUI operation. The price of reproductive medicine is not considered in this. Semen analysis, lab tests, and ultrasounds could have an additional expense.
Some insurance companies may offer partial coverage for the cost of reproductive treatments. You might be able to chat with an insurance or billing expert at your doctor’s office. They can aid in your comprehension of all available rates and payment plans.
Conclusion
Intrauterine insemination, which offers relatively few risks, can be a wonderful alternative for couples trying to conceive. If you’ve struggled to get pregnant or have any questions about your options, speak with your GYN or a fertility specialist.