Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a simple fertility procedure in which washed and concentrated sperm are placed directly into the uterus, bringing them closer to the egg and increasing the chance of fertilization.
Who May Benefit from Intrauterine Insemination
Women with unexplained infertility
Women with irregular ovulation (e.g., PCOS)
Couples with mild male factor infertility
Single women or same-sex female couples using donor sperm
How Intrauterine Insemination Works
Ovulation Monitoring – Ultrasound and/or hormone tests determine the best time for insemination.
Sperm Preparation – Sperm from the partner or donor is washed and concentrated to select the healthiest ones.
Insemination – A thin catheter is used to place the sperm directly into the uterus.
Pregnancy Testing – About two weeks later, a blood or urine test confirms pregnancy.
Advantages of Intrauterine Insemination
Quick and minimally invasive
No anesthesia required
Lower cost than IVF
Can be repeated for multiple cycles
Types of Intrauterine Insemination
By Sperm Source
Description
Ideal For
Partner IUI (AIH)
Uses sperm from the female partner’s husband/partner, washed and concentrated before insemination.
Couples where the male partner has healthy or mildly compromised sperm.
Donor IUI (AID)
Uses sperm from a screened donor, washed and concentrated before insemination.
Single women, female same-sex couples, or couples with severe male infertility.
By Ovulation Method
Description
Advantages
Considerations
Natural Cycle IUI
Performed during a woman’s natural ovulation cycle without fertility drugs.
