IUI: a simple procedure, carefully timed.
IUI places prepared sperm directly inside the womb at the time of ovulation, so more healthy sperm reach the egg. It is quick, done in the outpatient clinic, and for many couples it is the first fertility treatment worth trying. Scans and semen preparation are done in our own IUI lab.
Who IUI can help.
IUI is most often advised when the sperm count or movement is mildly low, when the cause of infertility is unexplained, when there are problems with the cervix or with intercourse, when ovulation needs medicines to help it along, or when donor sperm is being used.
For IUI to work, at least one fallopian tube must be open and the woman must ovulate, naturally or with medicines. That is why the tubes and the semen are checked before IUI is started.
IUI often needs more than one cycle. The doctor will tell you how many cycles are reasonable to try in your case, and what the next step would be if they do not succeed.
A few minutes
The insemination itself takes only a few minutes in the clinic.
Little discomfort
It feels much like a routine internal examination. No anaesthesia is needed.
Home the same day
You rest briefly afterwards and then carry on with your normal day.
In-house IUI lab
The semen sample is washed and prepared at the hospital shortly before the procedure.
What this covers at our hospital.
IUI may suit you if
- The sperm count or movement is mildly low
- Infertility is unexplained after tests
- Ovulation needs help with medicines, as in PCOS
- There are problems with the cervix or with intercourse
- Donor sperm is being used
IUI is usually not advised if
- Both fallopian tubes are blocked
- The sperm count is very low
- There is severe endometriosis
- Several well-run IUI cycles have already failed
Step by step.
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01
Tests first
Semen analysis, a check that at least one tube is open, and a baseline scan early in the cycle.
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02
Follicle tracking
Medicines to help ovulation if needed, with scans every few days to watch the egg follicle grow.
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03
Trigger and timing
When the follicle is ready, an injection may be given to trigger ovulation, and the IUI is timed to follow it.
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04
Semen preparation
On the day, the partner’s or donor sample is washed in our IUI lab to select the healthiest, most active sperm.
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05
The insemination
A soft, thin tube places the prepared sperm inside the womb. It takes a few minutes, and you rest briefly afterwards.
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06
Pregnancy test
A pregnancy test about two weeks later. If it is negative, the doctor goes through the cycle with you and plans the next one.
What patients ask us.
Is IUI painful?
Most women feel only mild discomfort, similar to a routine internal examination, and some have light cramps for a short while afterwards. No anaesthesia is needed.
How many IUI cycles should we try?
It depends on your age, your test results and the reason for treatment. Many couples try three or so cycles before moving on to another option. Your doctor will advise you based on your own case.
Can I go to work after IUI?
Yes. You rest briefly after the procedure and can then return to your normal routine, including work. There is no need for bed rest.
What does my partner need to do on the day?
He gives a semen sample at the hospital on the day of the IUI, usually after two to five days without ejaculation. Reception will tell you the exact time to arrive.
This page is general information, not medical advice for your own case. Your consultant will advise you after an examination.
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