Artificial Insemination (Intrauterine)

What Is Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)?

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is a form of artificial insemination through which sperm is placed in the uterus in order to facilitate conception.  The procedure tends to be less invasive and more affordable than in vitro fertilization (IVF).   

The gynecologist usually performs the procedure six hours prior to ovulation.  However, if the cause for infertility stems from the male, this is moved to six hours post ovulation. The male partner (or any donor for that matter) provides a semen sample that must be delivered to the gynecologist within a half hour or frozen for later use.  Prior to inserting the sperm into the patient’s uterus, the gynecologist performs a simple procedure called sperm washing.  Raw sperm is usually not introduced to the uterus since it tends to set off uterine contractions that can be very painful and may result in a collapsed uterus.  The cervix usually filters the agents causing these contractions during the natural course of conception.  Sperm washing can take between 30 minutes and two hours, depending on the type of procedure used. 

As part of the intrauterine insemination procedure, the gynecologist inserts a catheter into the patient’s uterus through the cervix.  The patient may experience slight discomfort during this process.  The gynecologist then injects the washed sperm into the uterus through the catheter.  This procedure only takes a few minutes to complete.  Most patients can resume regular activity immediately.