Getting Pregnant Through Intrauterine Insemination

Artificial insemination (known technically as intrauterine insemination (IUI)) is the process by which sperm is carefully placed in a woman's uterus through an artificial method. For many couples, it's an easier and more affordable alternative to IVF.

The IUI process uses a very thin flexible catheter that is inserted through the cervix.  Washed sperm is then injected through this into the uterus.

Because the IUI process is timed around ovulation, the cervix is already slightly open. This means the catheter is usually not uncomfortable. Most women liken the process  to having a pap smear, and consider it to be fairly painless. While there can be some cramping afterward, often what is felt is ovulation-related rather than from the IUI.

IUI: Who Is Artificial Insemination Suitable For?

If you haven't had success with intercourse, it's recommended that you try IUI if appropriate.  IUI is generally an option in cases where the sperm count is good, and where the woman is aged less than 36 years.

What Is The Timing For IUI?

So that the sperm is ready waiting for the egg, an IUI treatment is timed to be done within 6 hours either side of ovulation.

If you don't need the use of fertility drugs, Dr Davidson will time your IUI on the LH surge of your cycle. This would mean you might have a single IUI at 36 hours, or possibly 24 hours of this occurring.

When timing is based on an injection that involves fertility treatments, the IUIs are usually done between 24 and 48 hours later. If you had two IUIs scheduled, these are normally done at least 12 hours apart between 24 and 48 hours after the injection.

Success Rates For IUI (Artificial Insemination)

Always dependant on the age of the woman, intrauterine insemination success rates are reported to be just under 6%, and as high as 12% per cycle. The reason for such a wide range of statistics is that the lower statistics are from those cycles with one follicle, while the higher number refers to cycles when there were multiple follicles.

To find out whether artificial insemination could be an option for your situation, please contact us.