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Intra uterine insemination

Intrauterine insemination is the next step up from Clomiphene and Letrozole, and it can be used for quite a wide range of causes of infertility.
Helpful tools
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Intra uterine insemination (IUI)

Intra uterine insemination involves preparing sperm in the lab, then putting the best sperm directly into the uterus in a procedure that’s a bit like having a cervical smear.

IUI is the next step up from Clomiphene and Letrozole, and it can be used for quite a wide range of causes of infertility.

In nature, only one in a hundred sperm that are ejaculated reach the uterus, so IUI works by giving sperm a head-start in their journey to the egg. IUI is usually combined with a medication like Clomiphene to increase the number of eggs ovulated from one to two or three.

IUI cycles typically involve:

  • some blood tests
  • 1-2 ultrasound scans
  • injections, which people usually give themselves at home.

IUI is usually offered as a course of up to four cycles. One review consult with the doctor after four cycles of treatment is included. 

Around 40–50% of women aged 37 and younger have a child within four cycles, and the main side effect is a 10-15% chance of twins.

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Who is IUI suitable for?

    • Individuals who have realized they are experiencing infertility and wish to begin treatment under medical supervision

    • Couples who have been trying to conceive for a year without success

    • Those who have undergone medical check-ups on both sides and found no complex issues

    • Couples where the male partner has minor sperm-related problems

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Pros and Cons of IUI

Pros:
Cons:

  • Simple procedure, minimally invasive
  • Lower cost compared to IVF or ICSI
  • Increases the chances of sperm reaching the egg
  • Short treatment time, no recovery period needed
  • Lower success rate compared to IVF or ICSI
  • May not be effective if there are problems with the fallopian tubes or irregular ovulation
  • May require multiple cycles to achieve pregnancy
  • Not suitable for severe male infertility or advanced endometriosis
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Steps of Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) Treatment:

  1. Initial Consultation:
    Meet with the doctor to assess medical history and conduct fertility evaluations for both partners.

  2. Ovulation Stimulation : Fertility medication may be prescribed to stimulate the ovaries and encourage the development of one or more eggs.

  3. Ovulation Monitoring: The woman’s ovulation cycle is tracked using ultrasound and/or hormone tests to determine the best timing for insemination.

  4. Semen Collection and Preparation:
    The male partner provides a semen sample. The sperm is then washed and prepared in the lab to concentrate the healthiest sperm.

  5. Insemination Procedure:
    The prepared sperm is inserted directly into the woman’s uterus using a thin catheter. The procedure is quick and painless.

  6. Post-Insemination:
    The woman can resume normal activities. Two weeks later, a pregnancy test is done to check if the procedure was successful.

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The Biological Clock

This tool indicates:

  • Natural conception per month if you have no fertility issues
  • IVF success rate at the same age
  • When to seek help after months of unsuccessful attempts

If you are concerned at any stage – we recommend booking a doctor appointment or a free nurse consultation. The sooner you make a plan the better your chances in the long term.

When to seek advice early
  • If you have polycystic ovaries, endometriosis, or have been through a cancer diagnosis; we recommend you get in touch quickly so we can talk you through all your options and give you the greatest possible chance of success.
  • If you’re a single woman considering motherhood in the future; it’s best to approach us early and consider egg freezing as this can be an option for you while you have a higher ovarian reserve and healthier eggs.
Set your age and the months you’ve been trying to conceive
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Your chance of having a baby per month for fertile couples
Your chance of having a baby per IVF cycle (if experiencing infertility)

Body Mass Index calculator

Being overweight or underweight can reduce fertility, so it is important to keep your body weight within the normal healthy range.

Body Mass Index (BMI) is an indication of your body weight and can be calculated by dividing weight by height. You should aim for a BMI of between 20 and 25, as this will optimise your chances of conception.

Woman’s BMI below 19

Even in these modern times, nature knows best. If a woman's BMI falls below 19, the body senses famine and ovulation is switched off to prevent the risk of having a baby with malnutrition. Excessive exercise can reduce body fat and increase muscle mass to a point where periods cease for the same reason. Risk of miscarriage is also increased in women with a low BMI.

Being underweight

If a woman's BMI falls below 19, the body senses famine and ovulation is switched off to prevent the risk of having a baby with malnutrition. Excessive exercise can reduce body fat and increase muscle mass to a point where periods cease for the same reason. Risk of miscarriage is also increased in women with a low BMI.

BMI’s greater than 30

This can reduce fertility by 50%. Pregnancy for women with a 30+ BMI is often associated with problems such as maternal diabetes, high blood pressure, big babies and increased risk of caesarean section.

Add your height and weight to calculate your BMI
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