What is IUI?

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is one of the less stressful fertility treatments. In this treatment, sperms are placed directly into a woman’s uterus.

In the natural reproductive procedure, sperm travels from the vagina through the cervix, into the uterus, through the fallopian tube, and up to the Isthmus Junction. With IUI, sperm are converted into a concentrated form and placed directly into the uterus, which puts the sperm closer to the egg.

This process increases the chance of fertilization, hence an increase in the likelihood of pregnancy in certain couples with difficulty getting pregnant.

Why IUI?

In comparison to other fertilization treatments, Intrauterine Insemination is less stressful and hassle-free. In some cases, couples thought about IVF first. IUI may be the only treatment needed to achieve pregnancy for them.

IUI is mainly performed using the male partner’s sperm. In case of any difficulty, then only donor sperm has been taken into use.

IUI is most commonly used in:

·        Infertility without any proper explanation

·        low sperm count

·        A functional problem in the cervix or cervical muscles

·        Mild Endometriosis

·        Sperm with low mobility power

·        Problems with ejaculation or erection

·        Homosexual female couples wishing to conceive

·        A single woman wishing to conceive

·        To avoid passing on a genetic defect from the male partner to the child

IUI is not a solution in the following situations:

·        Moderate to severe Endometriosis

·        women who have had both fallopian tubes removed or have both fallopian tubes blocked

·        Problems with Fallopian tube

·        Multiple pelvic infections

·        Men who are not able to produce sperm (unless the couple wishes to use donor sperm).

In situations where IUI isn’t recommended, some other fertility treatments such as IVF results are helpful. If you wish to discuss options for conceiving, the best infertility specialist in Siliguri Dr. Prasenjit Kr. Roy can help you to determine the best treatment for you.

Expected Experiences after IUI Treatment

IUI is sometimes known as the “Natural Cycle”, as there is no such medication given.  In this relatively painless and non-invasive procedure, a woman ovulates naturally and has the sperm placed around the time of ovulation.

IUI can also be performed with ovarian stimulation. Medications such as Clomiphene Citrate, HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin), and FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) may be used to uplift the chances of ovarian maturation and release single or multiple eggs. Ovulation with more than one egg usually increases the chance of pregnancy.

IUI is quick and generally painless and does not require anesthesia.

Most women experience little to no discomfort, though some women may experience mild uterine cramping or vaginal bleeding during the procedure. Maximum women with discomfort experience, feel so mainly due to panic.

Sometimes, the second insemination has been performed on the next following day.

Sometimes, intake of progesterone after the procedure and through the early stages of pregnancy if pregnancy is achieved, has also been prescribed. Though in the maximum cases, this has not been prescribed. Patients are advised to take a pregnancy test two weeks after the IUI treatment had been done.

What are the risks?

A small risk of infection is there during this treatment. Though during the treatment procedure, all the medical equipment is sterilized before use. So, there is a very rare chance of any infection.

Sometimes a condition called ovarian Hyper Stimulation syndrome may result due to the over-respond by ovaries to fertility medications. Multiple numbers of eggs can be matured at one time and released. This can result in an enlarged ovary, fluid buildup in the abdomen, and cramping.

Success rates after IUI treatment tend to decrease in women after their 40s.

How Much Do You Have to Pay?

The cost to pursue IUI treatment can vary based on your location and specific needs.

You have to pay around 4500/- to 5000/- Rs. as the average IUI cost in India for a single cycle IUI. The IUI treatment success rate is better than other fertility treatments and it is available at an affordable budget in the best Fertility center in Malda.