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Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

What is IUI?

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) also referred to as Artificial Insemination, is an infertility treatment in which sperm is placed inside the female partner’s uterus near the fallopian tubes in order to increase the chances of pregnancy. This procedure helps sperm in getting closer to the egg. The sperm is placed in the uterus around the time when the female partner is ovulating. IUI decreases the distance that a sperm has to travel to reach egg thus, making conception easier and less time consuming. IUI treatment is rather cheap and less invasive choice when compared to In Vitro Fertilization (IVF).

IUI procedure insertion

IUI Cycle

Embarking on an Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) cycle at Australian Concept Infertility Center is a structured process designed to optimize the chances of achieving a successful pregnancy. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each stage within an IUI Cycle:

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IUI Process and Stages

Embarking on the journey of Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) at Australian Concept Infertility Center involves a well-defined series of stages, each meticulously designed to enhance the chances of successful conception. Here is a detailed breakdown of the IUI process:

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1. Ovarian Stimulation:

  •  In some cases, fertility medications may be prescribed to stimulate the ovaries and encourage the development of multiple eggs. This step aims to increase the likelihood of successful fertilization.

2. Monitoring:

  • Throughout the IUI cycle, the woman’s cycle is closely monitored using ultrasounds and blood tests to track the development of eggs and determine the optimal time for insemination.

3.Trigger Shot:

  • When the eggs are mature, a trigger shot of hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) may be administered to induce ovulation.

4. Sperm Preparation:

  • On the day of the IUI, the sperm sample is collected, washed, and prepared. Washing the sperm helps concentrate the healthy and active sperm, removing non-motile sperm and other impurities.

5. Insemination:

  • The prepared sperm is then placed directly into the woman’s uterus using a thin catheter. This process aims to bring the sperm closer to the eggs, increasing the chances of fertilization.

6. Luteal Phase Support:

  • After the IUI, hormonal support may be provided to help sustain the uterine lining and support early pregnancy, if fertilization occurs.

Success IUI Reasons

1. Timing:

  • Ensuring insemination aligns with the woman’s ovulation period.

2. Sperm Quality:

  • Concentration, motility, and morphology of sperm are crucial factors.

3. Fallopian Tube Health:

  • Patency and health of the fallopian tubes play a role in successful conception.

4. IUI Monitoring:

  • Tracking hormonal levels and monitoring for signs of pregnancy.

5. Follow-up Appointments:

  • Consultations with the fertility specialist to assess the success of the IUI cycle

Semen Preparation

Before the insemination procedure may begin, semen is retrieved from your partner that undergoes a process called “sperm washing.” During sperm washing, a concentrated amount of healthy sperm from semen is collected. Also, it is necessary to remove seminal plasma to avoid contractions of the uterus caused by prostaglandins. Once the semen is prepared, the infertility specialist shall put the sperm right into your uterus. Pregnancy takes place only when the sperm fertilizes the egg and the resulting embryo implants itself to the lining of the uterus.

Quality of the Specimen

The success of an IUI treatment widely depends upon the quality of the specimen. Generally, after processing the semen sample the number of motile sperm should be 5 million at least for an IUI treatment to be successful.

Mode of Insemination

Insemination takes place at the IVF clinic where the doctor shall attach the sample of healthy sperm to the end of a flexible tube i.e., catheter. The catheter is injected into the uterus through cervical opening where the sperm sample is pushed through the tube into the uterus after which the catheter is removed.

Timing of Insemination

Monitoring the signs of ovulation are essential as timing plays a crucial role in Intrauterine Insemination. The reason behind it is that timing of insemination relative to ovulation is the key to successful IUI treatment. Most IUI treatments are done one or two days after ovulation is detected. It’s important to understand that not every female needs to undergo such investigations to reach the diagnosis of infertility.

Who should go for IUI?

Intrauterine Insemination like other infertility treatments help the infertile couples in achieving parenthood. However, it is a less advanced treatment and is suitable for couples who have:

  • Unexplained Infertility
  • Infertility due to Endometriosis
  • Mild male factor infertility (subfertility)
  • Semen allergy
  • Infertility due the thickness of cervical mucus impeding the sperm’s journey towards the egg
  • Infertility due to ovulation issues

IUI Risk Factor

Duration of IUI

The procedure of Intrauterine Insemination only takes a minute or two. It does not require anesthesia, medicines or pain relivers either. However, the procedure is carried out by experienced specialist with trained staff accompanying them. After the procedure, it is recommended to lie on your back for some time. Afterwards, you can go home on your feet and continue your daily activities.

IUI Success Rate

The success rate of an IUI treatment depends upon a number of factors. For instance, if your infertility is unexplained with healthy eggs and fallopian tubes then the success rate of IUI treatment is around 7% to 10% per cycle whereas, if IUI treatment is combined with fertility medications then the success rate increases to 15% to 25% per cycle. Additionally, maternal age plays an essential role in the success of an IUI treatment.

IUI Cost in Pakistan

In Pakistan, the cost of Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) typically ranges from 45,000 to 55,000 Pakistani Rupees. This procedure involves placing sperm directly into a woman’s uterus to facilitate fertilization and increase the chances of pregnancy. The overall cost may vary based on several factors, including the fertility clinic’s location, the expertise of the medical professionals involved, and any additional diagnostic tests or medications required during the process. It’s essential for individuals or couples considering IUI to consult with fertility specialists to get a personalized assessment of their situation and a breakdown of the potential costs involved. Additionally, patients should inquire about any potential financial assistance programs, insurance coverage, or payment plans that may help alleviate the financial burden associated with fertility treatments.

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