What is IUI(Intra Uterine Insemination )
IUI is a process in which sperms is introduced inside the uterine cavity. These sperms are washed and a concentrate is made of active motile sperms which are than introduced in the cavity of the uterus.
IUI can be done in a natural cycle or stimulated cycle accompanied by follicular monitoring. The success of IUI is better in a cycle with superovulation.
Timing of IUI
Procedure of IUI is done approximately 36-40 hours post trigger injection for ovulation.
Success of IUI
15-20% but may vary depending on factors affecting fertility.
Why it's done ?
Intrauterine insemination is done most often in couples who have:
- Unexplained infertility: In cases of unexplained infertility, superovulation with IUI is considered as treatment of choice.
- Endometriosis-related infertility: If the tubes are not involved than it is considered as first line of treatment.
- Mild male factor infertility (subfertility): Inserting concentrated sample of sperms inside the uterine cavity may help patients with mild male factor.
- Cervical factor infertility: Mucus produced by the cervix around the time of ovulation provides an ideal environment for sperm to travel from your vagina to the fallopian tubes. But, if your cervical mucus is too thick, it may impede the sperm's journey. IUI bypasses your cervix, depositing sperm directly into your uterus and increasing the number of sperm available to meet the awaiting egg.
- Cervical factor infertility: Mucus produced by the cervix around the time of ovulation provides an ideal environment for sperm to travel from your vagina to the fallopian tubes. But, if your cervical mucus is too thick, it may impede the sperm's journey. IUI bypasses your cervix, depositing sperm directly into your uterus and increasing the number of sperm available to meet the awaiting egg.
- Ovarian Factor: In patients with poor ovarian reserve, to enhance the chance of pregnancy.
- Donor sperm: In couple with azoospermic husband, donor sperm IUI can be used to achieve pregnancy.
Intrauterine insemination involves careful coordination before the actual procedure:
- Follicular Monitoring
- Trigger: An injection of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is given when follicle size of more than 18mm achieved to assist ovulation.
- Determining optimal timing: Most IUIs are done 36 to 40 hours after trigger injection.
- Preparing the semen sample: Semen sample is given at the hospital. The sample will be washed in a way that separates the highly active, normal sperm from lower quality sperm and other elements. The likelihood of achieving pregnancy increases by using a concentrated sample of healthy sperm.
Results
We have to wait for 2 weeks before taking a pregnancy test.
Advantages of IUI
- 1. Improves the quality and the number of sperms
- 2. IUI(Intra Uterine Insemination ) sample have more than 80 to 90 % motile Sperm3. More sperm reach the oocyte and improves chances of fertilization
- 3. More sperm reach the oocyte and improves chances of fertilization