IUI, also known as intrauterine insemination, is a fertility treatment that involves placing sperm directly into a woman’s uterus. The procedure is typically performed in a doctor’s office or clinic, and it does not require any anesthesia.
IUI is typically recommended for couples who are experiencing problems with fertility, such as low sperm count or motility, or cervical mucus problems. The procedure can also be used to treat infertility caused by certain medical conditions, such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids.
To perform IUI, the woman is asked to lie on an exam table with her hips elevated. A speculum is inserted into the vagina to hold it open, and a catheter is then inserted through the cervix and into the uterus. The sperm are then washed and prepared for insemination, and a small amount is placed into the uterus through the catheter.
IUI is considered a safe and effective fertility treatment, with success rates that vary depending on the underlying cause of the fertility problems. In general, the chance of becoming pregnant with IUI is about 10-20% per cycle, but it can be higher or lower depending on the couple’s specific circumstances. It is important for couples to discuss the potential benefits and risks of IUI with their healthcare provider before deciding whether to undergo the procedure.